Leverkusen boss reveals key details on Wirtz's move to Liverpool
Reflecting on the landmark move in an interview with Sport Bild, Bayer Leverkusen managing director for sport Simon Rolfes revealed that the German club wanted to extend Wirtz's contract until it became clear that the young German was keen on taking the next step.
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'Our aim was to extend Florian's contract and keep him for at least one more year. But gradually, we sensed that he was increasingly focused on a transfer,' Rolfes said.
'From February or March onwards, the conversations shifted more towards other clubs and leagues. We always knew how he was thinking. We knew from the parents who they were talking to. The clubs from abroad (including Liverpool and Manchester City) also kept us informed; they acted very professionally and seriously.'
When asked when Wirtz informed the club of his decision, Rolfes replied:
'In May, he told us that he had decided on FC Liverpool.'
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Following that, negotiations between Leverkusen and Liverpool began.
'We only negotiated with Liverpool after Florian told us it was his desired club. From the start of negotiations, I was confident it would work out. Of course, everyone fights for their position, but it was always respectful.
'The people involved from both clubs know each other so well that no personal meeting was necessary. We handled everything by phone, email, and video conferences.'
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