Liverpool have emerged as frontrunners to secure the signature of Bayer Leverkusen's star midfielder Florian Wirtz, who has reportedly decided to turn down advances from German giants Bayern Munich.

According to German publication Kicker, the 22-year-old talent has informed Bayern Munich of his preference for a move to England, with the newly-crowned Premier League champions now preparing to open negotiations for a record-breaking €150 million (approximately ₦240 billion) transfer.

Sources close to the situation reveal that a conversation with Liverpool manager Arne Slot played a decisive role in Wirtz's decision. Despite similar discussions with Bayern's Vincent Kompany, the young German international appears set on joining the Merseyside club.

"The conversation between Wirtz and Liverpool coach Arne Slot is said to have been a decisive factor," Kicker reported, adding that "everything points to Wirtz moving to the UK" despite interest from other European heavyweights.

Slot, who guided Liverpool to Premier League glory in his debut season, is reportedly keen to strengthen his championship-winning squad. The Dutch tactician appears to have convinced Wirtz that Anfield is the ideal destination for the next stage of his career.

Real Madrid were also among the clubs interested in acquiring Wirtz's services, particularly with former Leverkusen manager Xabi Alonso set to take over as head coach at the Santiago Bernabeu. However, Liverpool's swift approach seems to have given them the edge in this high-profile transfer race.

If completed, this transfer would represent one of the most significant deals in recent football history and a major statement of intent from Liverpool as they look to build on their domestic success and challenge for European honors next season.