Liverpool have been warned that £116million summer signing Florian Wirtz is being eyed for a surprising loan move to Real Madrid in January after a challenging start at Anfield. The 22-year-old, who joined from Bayer Leverkusen, is yet to record a direct goal contribution for his new club.
Former Arsenal and Chelsea midfielder Emmanuel Petit has suggested that Real Madrid could make a move, with Xabi Alonso reportedly keen. Petit told Boyle Sports: "I heard that Xabi Alonso wants Real Madrid to keep an eye on Florian Wirtz ahead of a possible loan in January, that's how much he respects him as a player."
Petit also commented on Wirtz's difficulties adapting to English football, noting the Premier League's pace. "The Premier League is very quick, you have no time to think with the ball, so you need to play very quickly. You also need to be able to respond physically," he said. In contrast, he argued La Liga is more technical and could suit the young playmaker better.
The former France international also questioned whether Wirtz might have been better served joining Bayern Munich, who reportedly showed interest. "It might have been better for him to sign for Bayern Munich, given how they've handled their best players for years," Petit added, while acknowledging Wirtz's quality and potential.
Despite the slow start, Petit believes there is time for Wirtz to turn things around, pointing to the player's own confidence. With only eight weeks of the season gone, Liverpool fans will hope the German international can soon justify his hefty price tag.
