Liverpool hold secret meeting with Florian Wirtz as they look to hijack Man City’s transfer for £126m Leverkusen star
LIVERPOOL have reportedly held a secret meeting with Florian Wirtz in an effort to hijack Manchester City’s transfer.
The German superstar jetted in talks with the Citizens ahead of a potential £126million transfer.
Pep Guardiola‘s side were hoping to convince the attacking midfielder to choose the Etihad over Bayern Munich.
The Bayer Leverkusen ace is viewed by the Spanish manager as the No.1 target to replace outgoing Kevin De Bruyne.
The club had spoken to the player’s father and agent Hans ahead of what would be a British transfer record move.
The £126m fee would surpass the £115m that Chelsea forked out for Moises Caicedo from Brighton in 2023.
However, fresh reports have claimed that Liverpool are ready to hijack the deal.
German outlet Bild have claimed that the Reds held a secret meeting with Wirtz on Tuesday.
His contract at the BayArena is set to expire in 2027 but he is expected to move this summer.
Bayern Munich are also heavily interested in signing the talented German international.
The report has also suggested that the Bundesliga champions are confident that they will win the race for his signature.
It claims that the club chiefs are “confident” that Wirtz will keep his “promise” and move to the Allianz Arena.
Wirtz, 22, has excelled yet again this season despite Leverkusen failing to defend their Bundesliga title.
The midfielder has contributed ten goals and 12 assists in just 30 league appearances.
Meanwhile, Man City have also approached AC Milan to sign Tijjani Reijnders, 26, although they are yet to submit a bid.
Milan want around £60m for the Dutch midfielder, which would make him their biggest sale in their history.
The two clubs still have a negotiation to complete over right-back Kyle Walker, 34, who is on loan at the Serie A outfit from City for the rest of the season.
City are also interested in Nottingham Forest star Morgan-Gibbs White, 25.
However, Newcastle will fight off any City attempt to sign England star Tino Livramento.
The defender has shone since stepping up to become Toon’s first-choice right-back ahead of Kieran Trippier.