The €129 million offer from Liverpool for Florian Wirtz was turned down by Bayer Leverkusen.

Liverpool’s pursuit of Bayer Leverkusen’s Florian Wirtz has encountered a significant obstacle. The Bundesliga club rejected Liverpool’s second bid for the 22-year-old German midfielder, reportedly around €130 million (£109 million). Leverkusen is holding out for a higher total package, with some reports indicating they are seeking €150 million.

Despite the setback, negotiations are ongoing. Liverpool has reportedly agreed on personal terms with Wirtz, and the player is eager to join Anfield. Leverkusen, however, is also interested in including players like Harvey Elliott and Jarell Quansah in any potential deal. Elliott made only two Premier League starts last season, while Quansah appeared in 13 matches.

This development comes amid competition from other top clubs. Real Madrid is reportedly closing in on a £127 million transfer for Wirtz, with personal terms already agreed upon. Liverpool’s bid, if successful, would surpass the current British transfer record of £115 million paid by Chelsea for Moisés Caicedo in 2023.

Liverpool is keen to finalize signings early in the transfer window. They have already secured Jeremie Frimpong by activating his £29.5 million release clause, following Trent Alexander-Arnold’s transfer to Real Madrid. Additional targets for the Reds include Bournemouth left-back Milos Kerkez, valued at £45 million, and possibly Newcastle winger Anthony Gordon if Luis Díaz departs.