The question now is actually whether Liverpool will be able to complete the transfer of Florian Wirtz?
The transfer saga surrounding Bayer Leverkusen’s star Florian Wirtz has taken a new turn as Liverpool fight to get the deal done. In recent weeks, 22-year-old Wirtz has dominated the headlines after his future became the number one topic of conversation.
After rejecting approaches from both Bayern Munich and Manchester City, Liverpool were left with a clear path to secure Wirtz’s signature.
Read: Pep Guardiola signs French national team gem
Last week, it was reported that Liverpool had made an offer worth €130 million.
David Ornstein of The Athletic wrote:
“Liverpool have submitted an offer to sign Florian Wirtz from Bayer Leverkusen worth up to €130 million in total. This is an enhanced second offer, where the amount represents a top sum – including a fixed fee and potential bonuses. The 22-year-old #Bayer04 game maker is eager to join #LFC.”
Bayer Leverkusen wants more
According to the German newspaper BILD, Bayer Leverkusen are demanding a whopping 150 million euros.
In addition, Wirtz’s former club, FC Köln, may delay the process. The report stated that the club’s boss, Werner Wolf, has promised to fight for what he believes Cologne deserves.
Training compensation can become a factor
According to FIFA’s rules, clubs that have contributed to a player’s development between the ages of 12 and 23 are entitled to a part of the transfer fee, namely five percent.
Wirtz was in Cologne from the age of seven to 16, which means that Cologne may now be entitled to so-called “training compensation”.
If Liverpool are willing to match Leverkusen’s demand of €150 million, Cologne could end up receiving €7.5 million.
According to BILD, Wolf stated:
“Of course we are looking into this. We know what we are entitled to, and we will fight for it. We follow this with both eyes. We will take advantage of it. The higher the amount Liverpool are willing to pay, the better for us.”
Price can be pushed up
With the compensation claim now on the table, Leverkusen can use this to push up their own desired transfer fee for Wirtz.
Read on F7: “The most expensive Manchester United flop of all time” is linked to shock transfer
This could be bad news for Liverpool’s supporters, because if the price gets too high, the Reds could potentially pull out of the deal altogether.
