Bayern Munich officials were reportedly taken aback when Bayer Leverkusen midfielder Florian Wirtz expressed his wish to complete a summer transfer to Liverpool.
The Bundesliga champions have openly stated their intention to acquire Wirtz, publicly encouraging him to relocate to Munich, and their optimism regarding a potential agreement only increased when rival bidders Manchester City withdrew from the competition for his signature.
Regrettably for Bayern, they were not left to pursue Wirtz unchallenged, as Liverpool intervened to consider a club-record signing, with the Reds ultimately opting to formalise their interest shortly thereafter.
Numerous sources, including The Athletic, have now reported on Wirtz’s aspiration to join Anfield this summer.
The 22-year-old has conveyed his preference to Bayern and has even begun searching for a residence in Liverpool in anticipation of finalising a transfer.