Florian Wirtz’s transfer has been officially announced: Liverpool has confirmed the record-breaking acquisition of the German star from Bayer Leverkusen in a major deal.

Liverpool have officially announced the signing of Florian Wirtz from Bayer Leverkusen for a club-record fee, marking a significant moment in the transfer market.

The 22-year-old German international is reported to have cost the Reds up to £116 million, surpassing the previous British transfer record of £107 million set by Chelsea for Enzo Fernandez in 2023. This move highlights Liverpool’s ambition as they look to strengthen their squad ahead of the new season.

Wirtz has signed a long-term deal at Anfield and expressed his delight at the transfer. “I feel very happy and very proud,” he stated. “Finally it’s done and I was waiting for a long time – I am really happy.”

The young midfielder is eager for a new challenge in the Premier League. “I’m really excited to have a new adventure in front of me. This was also a big point of my thoughts: that I want to have something completely new, to go out of the Bundesliga and to join the Premier League.”

Wirtz has received positive feedback from players who have experienced the Premier League, saying, “They told me that it’s perfect for me and every pitch is perfect, you can enjoy every game. I’m really looking forward to playing my first game.”

A highly regarded talent, Wirtz was named Bundesliga’s Player of the Season in 2023/24 as Xabi Alonso’s Leverkusen clinched the title while remaining unbeaten. He finished that campaign with an impressive tally of 18 goals and 20 assists, following up with 16 goals and 15 assists in the subsequent season.

However, the pursuit of another Bundesliga title fell short last season, with Leverkusen finishing second, 13 points behind Bayern Munich.

Liverpool’s manager, Jürgen Klopp, has already bolstered his squad with the addition of Leverkusen defender Jeremie Frimpong, following the departure of Trent Alexander-Arnold. Wirtz’s arrival further strengthens an already formidable midfield, enhancing their chances of retaining the league title next season.

Interestingly, Liverpool and Leverkusen faced each other in UEFA Champions League action last November at Anfield, where the Reds secured a convincing 4-0 victory. This transfer could prove to be a pivotal moment for both Wirtz and Liverpool as they aim for success in the upcoming campaign.