Football pundit Ally McCoist has shared his thoughts on why Premier League giants Liverpool should steer clear of a potential move for Florian Wirtz this summer. The Reds have had a stellar season under new manager Arne Slot, clinching their 20th Premier League title with four games to spare. However, the club is already looking to strengthen its squad for the upcoming season.
Liverpool is reportedly close to securing a second defensive signing, with Jeremie Frimpong expected to join the ranks at Anfield. The club is also eyeing Bayer Leverkusen’s Florian Witz, who has emerged as one of Europe’s most exciting attacking midfielders. Wirtz has been instrumental for Leverkusen this season, racking up 16 goals and 15 assists, and his performances have caught the attention of several top clubs.
However, Wirtz’s hefty price tag—reportedly around £125 million—has raised eyebrows. Manchester City, initially interested, have reportedly withdrawn from the race, leaving Liverpool and Bayern Munich as the main contenders. McCoist, however, believes the Reds should think twice before pursuing the 22-year-old.
Speaking on talkSPORT, McCoist argued that Wirtz’s valuation is too high, especially considering Liverpool’s pressing need for a striker to replace Darwin Nunez. “Yes, for anyone, that’s my argument,” McCoist said. “Is he a good player? Yes. Is he a top player? Yes. But I think that money could be better spent. I really do.”
McCoist suggested that Liverpool could use the funds to sign multiple players instead of splashing out on a single star. “If you can get three players at £40 million or maybe an £80 million and a £40 million, that’s a better strategy,” he added. “I like Wirtz as a player, but it’s too much for me. The market has gone crazy, but I still think the priority should be a striker.”
Meanwhile, journalist Graeme Bailey reports that Bayern Munich may have the upper hand in the race for Wirtz. According to Bailey, Bayern’s confidence stems from Wirtz’s close relationship with Jamal Musiala, a key player for the German club. “Bayern has been talking to Wirtz for months and believes an agreement is already in place,” Bailey explained. “It would be a major shock if he joined another club.”
Bailey also noted that Bayern is willing to wait until 2026 to secure Wirtz’s signature if necessary, though they would prefer to finalize the deal this summer. “Manchester City has accepted that Wirtz is likely heading to Munich,” he added. “Liverpool would only make a move if Wirtz explicitly expressed a desire to join them over Bayern.”
As the transfer saga unfolds, Liverpool fans will be eager to see how the club navigates the summer window. With a Premier League title under their belt and a new manager at the helm, the Reds are poised for an exciting season ahead.
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