Overview

• Florian Wirtz has chosen Liverpool over Bayern Munich, with Bayer Leverkusen confirming Liverpool's concrete interest in the player.
• The €150 million transfer is nearing completion, marking a significant move for the 22-year-old German midfielder to the Premier League.
• Bayern Munich, once considered a frontrunner, was blindsided by Wirtz's decision, which was communicated by his father and advisor, Hans-Joachim Wirtz.
• Bayern had planned a major financial package for Wirtz, backed by Adidas, but now must pivot to alternative targets such as Kaoru Mitoma, Eberechi Eze, and Rafael Leão.
• Bayer Leverkusen is preparing for Wirtz's departure by exploring potential replacements or focusing on developing existing talent under new coach Erik ten Hag.