Bayer Leverkusen managing director Simon Rolfes has already dismissed speculation that Liverpool-linked Florian Wirtz will leave this summer.
Spanish news outlet Marca has claimed that the Reds could suffer a setback in their hunt for the highly-rated German sensation as Real Madrid plot a move for the playmaker. According to a report, the 21-year-old has a ‘gentleman’s agreement’ in place with Carlo Ancelotti’s side to sign for the Champions League holders in 12 months.
It has been suggested that a deal for Wirtz could be worth around £127million, a move that would see the Reds seemingly miss out on a player they’re reportedly interested in.
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Los Blancos have emerged as candidates to sign Wirtz after he enjoyed a phenomenal season under Liverpool icon Xabi Alonso. Leverkusen won their first ever Bundesliga crown, going the entire German campaign unbeaten, adding the German Cup to their collection as they were denied the treble by Atalanta in the Europa League final.
Wirtz suffered a season-ending knee injury in March 2022 but recovered to become the Bundesliga Player of the Season as Leverkusen ended Bayern Munich’s stronghold at the German summit.
Leverkusen chief Rolfes has already ruled out the prospect of a sale this summer for Wirtz, who has three years remaining on his current contract in North Rhine-Westphalia.
“He will stay. His father and agent said it before. He has a contract here and he’s really happy,” he said speaking to Sky Sports. “This is the right place for him to develop as a player and person. His future is bright that’s for sure.
“He is such a good player and shows a great will to win and to work. It’s not normally the attributes of a number 10 but he combines talent with the work rate of a six or a defensive player along with producing special magic moments.”