Liverpool are closing in on what might be one of their biggest signings in years in Bayer Leverkusen midfielder Florian Wirtz.

The Bayer Leverkusen sensation has been one of the best players in the world in the last two seasons, with Liverpool now set to sign Wirtz for a club-record fee as the Reds also close in on a deal to bring Jeremie Frimpong to Anfield.

With two top targets virtually signed, attention will soon turn to a centre-forward, with Liverpool’s top target for the position being Alexander Isak, who this season has been one of the best strikers in the Premier League with Newcastle United.

However, Manchester United might have just ended Liverpool’s hopes of signing Isak this summer.

Florian Wirtz denied dream Liverpool shirt number but second-choice still available	Florian Wirtz to be denied dream shirt number at Liverpool as likely option emerges	Florian Wirtz could be denied dream Liverpool shirt number but second option available

READ MORE: Ranking Liverpool’s last 10 signings from the German Bundesliga as Reds line up Jeremie Frimpong and Florian Wirtz

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Away from Liverpool’s Premier League title lift, the race for UEFA Champions League football came to an exciting if underwhelming end in the league, with Newcastle United securing fifth spot despite losing at home to Everton, thanks to United’s 2-0 win against 10-men Aston Villa.

As a result of Newcastle finishing in a Champions League spot, the odds of Isak now leaving St.

James’ Park this summer have now virtually gone from extremely unlikely to impossible, with the Toon having complete control over what to do with their star attacker for the transfer window.

Given how exciting a signing Wirtz will be for Liverpool, Newcastle missing out on a top-five finish and Isak forcing a move out could have led to the Reds pulling off one of the most bombastic yet daring moves of the entire summer.

However, with United beating Villa, Newcastle’s Champions League dream was accomplished, and Liverpool will now need to look further afield if they’re to bring in a world-class striker to lead the line for next season.

More to follow…


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