Liverpool FC can expect a playmaker with similar qualities to Lionel Messi, according to Bayer Leverkusen boss Xabi Alonso, should they land Florian Wirtz this summer.

The Reds have sensationally emerged as the favourites to sign him, with the German edging closer to a Leverkusen exit.

It was reported earlier this week that Bayern Munich no longer expect to sign the star, and with other suitors Manchester City having already pulled out of the race, it’s opened up the door for Liverpool.



Given the calibre of sides the Merseyside outfit will have fended off, should they secure Wirtz’s services, it’s understandable that Liverpool fans are excited.

Xabi Alonso has told Liverpool all it needs to know with Florian Wirtz verdict	Xabi Alonso's verdict on Florian Wirtz speaks volumes as Liverpool close in on huge transfer	Florian Wirtz has already told Liverpool fans what nickname they absolutely cannot call him if he joins from Bayer Leverkusen

Article continues below ADVERTISEMENT

But it’s the verdict from former Anfield hero Alonso that has got tails wagging the most, with the Spanish coach having likened him to eight-time Ballon d’Or winner Messi.

Alonso said: “There are good players and there are players who look good on the pitch.

Following the ACL tear, Wirtz’s longest stint away from the Leverkusen line-up came earlier this season, when he sat out five matches.

Wirtz’s crowning moment for Leverkusen came during the 2023/24 campaign, when, under the tutelage of Alonso, he was part of the side that won the club’s first-ever Bundesliga title.

Not only that, but Leverkusen’s only defeat of a campaign that saw them lift the Bundesliga and DFB Pokal came in the Europa League final against Atalanta.

Wirtz featured 48 times for the team from North Rhine-Westphalia, scoring 18 times and assisting a further 20.
For more news relating to Manchester City, visit our sister site City Latest Live.