Florian Wirtz Transfer Value to Liverpool Clear After Initial £116m Struggles

Liverpool FC shattered their transfer record by signing German star Florian Wirtz from Bayer Leverkusen in summer 2025 for an initial £100 million plus £16 million in add-ons, totaling around £116 million (€125 million).[2][1] Despite early negotiation hurdles—Leverkusen valued him at up to €150 million (£126 million)—Liverpool secured the 22-year-old after outbidding rivals Bayern Munich and Manchester City.[3][2]

Wirtz, who had been eyed as a Kevin De Bruyne replacement at City, opted for Anfield following Liverpool's Premier League title win under Arne Slot. He signed a five-year deal, expressing excitement for a "new adventure" outside the Bundesliga.[2] Joining teammate Jeremie Frimpong, already at Liverpool, Wirtz brings versatility across attacking roles, backed by 57 goals and 65 assists in 197 Leverkusen appearances.[2]

By January 2026, Wirtz has justified the investment. Recent stats show strong form: 2 goals, 1 assist, 28 shots (4.08 xG), and 84.8% pass accuracy in 1,414 minutes.[4] Highlights include a 9.0 rating vs. Wolves (89') and 8.2 in FA Cup vs. Barnsley.[4]

His market value has stabilized or risen post-transfer. Estimates range from €99.6M-€121.7M (FootballTransfers), €110.7M (FotMob), €135.8M (Rousing The Kop—Liverpool's highest), to €136M (CIES, global top ranks).[1][4][5][6] This clarity dispels initial doubts over the high fee amid Leverkusen's demands, affirming Wirtz as a cornerstone for Liverpool's attack alongside Mac Allister (€134.6M) and Gravenberch (€86.1M).[1]

With shirt number 7, Wirtz's integration signals Liverpool's ambition, turning transfer "struggles" into a resounding success.[4]

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