Liverpool have had a club-record bid of £110 million (€130 million) for Bayer Leverkusen playmaker Florian Wirtz rejected, according to German publication BILD.
The 22-year-old German international has emerged as the primary transfer target for Liverpool manager Arne Slot, who is looking to strengthen his squad after winning the Premier League title in his debut season at Anfield.
Despite Liverpool's substantial offer, Leverkusen are standing firm, demanding €150 million (£127 million) for their prized asset who played a pivotal role in their unexpected Bundesliga triumph in the 2023-24 season.
Reports suggest Wirtz has already agreed personal terms with Liverpool, indicating his willingness to make the move to Merseyside. This development positions Anfield as the most likely destination for the talented playmaker, despite long-standing interest from Bayern Munich and Manchester City.
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola reportedly views Wirtz as the ideal successor to Kevin De Bruyne as the club's primary creative force, but Liverpool appear to have moved ahead in the race for his signature.
The potential transfer would shatter Liverpool's current record fee, which stands at the £75 million paid for Virgil van Dijk in 2018. It would also represent one of the most significant transfers in Premier League history.
Wirtz has established himself as one of Europe's most exciting young talents, combining exceptional technical ability with creative vision and goal-scoring prowess. His performances were instrumental in Leverkusen's historic Bundesliga title win under Xabi Alonso.
It remains to be seen whether Liverpool will return with an improved offer that meets Leverkusen's valuation, or if they will explore alternative targets as the summer transfer window progresses.