Liverpool could face stiff competition from Real Madrid for Bayer Leverkusen star Florian Wirtz, with the Spanish giants reportedly planning a move in 2025. The 21-year-old midfielder has been linked with a transfer to Anfield, but Real Madrid are also keen and aim to sign him alongside bringing former Liverpool midfielder Xabi Alonso to the Bernabéu as manager.
According to German outlet Sport Bild, Real Madrid intend to replace Carlo Ancelotti with Alonso in 2025 and will target Wirtz in the same window. The playmaker, who helped Leverkusen win the Bundesliga title under Alonso, could cost around €130 million (£110 million) for any interested club next summer.
Wirtz's agent and father, Hans-Joachim Wirtz, addressed his son's future in March, stating that the player is committed to Leverkusen until 2027. 'Florian has a contract in Leverkusen until 2027. That is roughly how long he will stay at Leverkusen,' he told Kolner Stadt-Anzeiger. He added that there is no answer on what will happen, urging patience over the next two years.
Hans-Joachim Wirtz also praised Alonso's influence, saying: 'Florian is very lucky to have Xabi Alonso, who brings a lot of qualities. He has a great relationship with the whole team. It's the right coach at the right time.'
Liverpool have been credited with an interest in Wirtz, but any move this summer appears unlikely given the player's contract length and the reported price tag. Real Madrid's plans to sign both Wirtz and Alonso in 2025 could complicate Liverpool's pursuit of the German international.
