Florian Wirtz confirms ‘tempting' feelings days before Liverpool trip
Florian Wirtz has now firmly emerged as a Liverpool transfer target.
As reports confirmed, the German international had travelled to England earlier this week to meet with Reds officials.
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It's becoming very apparent that Liverpool would like to add more creativity to the starting line-up following the departure of Trent Alexander-Arnold and Wirtz ticks a lot of boxes.
He's the kind of generational talent who can become one of the world's best in years to come. Having celebrated his 22nd birthday earlier this month, he already had close to 200 senior appearances under his belt for Bayer Leverkusen and has averaged a goal or assist 0.77 per 90 minutes.
That production rate combined with the way Wirth can manipulate the ball and evade defenders makes him the perfect fit for any side in the world - but especially this Liverpool team who lack a nimble-footed creative force.
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There are still so many obstacles for Liverpool to overcome if they want to complete a deal for the German. Among them is the fact that Bayern Munich are also pursuing a move for the attacking midfielder.
Florian Wirtz on the temptations of moving abroad
For any German player the appeal of moving to the country's biggest team is one difficult to compete against for the likes of Liverpool.
Bayern Munich have a major pull in the country. They are a formidable force in the Bundesliga who have dominated the competition since their inception.
Wirtz will undoubtedly feel tempted by moving to such a historic club where he is guaranteed to win titles. However, he may also look forward to a new challenge.
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In a recent interview with Sports Illustrated Germany for their May edition, Wirtz confirmed he would consider a move abroad.
"I'm quite lucky to have so many excellent clubs right on my doorstep and to now be able to play for one of the best clubs in Germany and Europe," Wirtz said.
"I have big respect for the guys here in Leverkusen, who come from South America or Africa, for example, and leave their families and environment behind for their careers.
"It's definitely tempting for me to leave my comfort zone at some point and experience something new. I know the football dressing rooms well enough and am convinced that I would quickly find my place anywhere."
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It's the last two sentences that stand out for Liverpool here. From his comments here it's clear Wirtz would be open to the challenge of moving to Anfield if the opportunity presented itself.
What's even more encouraging is that Wirtz didn't say this years ago. He said this in Sports Illustrated's most recent edition - so the interview was at best weeks ago.
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