Liverpool Nears Record £126M Deal for Florian Wirtz Amid Shirt Demand Denial

Florian Wirtz, the Bayer Leverkusen midfielder, has firmly denied rumors that he demanded the number 10 shirt at Liverpool, a number currently worn by Alexis Mac Allister, urging fans not to believe everything they read in the media. Wirtz expressed his respect for all players on his social media, directly refuting claims made by German press and Sky Germany. Liverpool and Bayer Leverkusen are reportedly negotiating a record-breaking transfer deal, with Bayer holding out for around £125-£126 million, which would make Wirtz the most expensive British football signing. Liverpool’s Sporting Director has proposed a package including performance-related bonuses, but no agreement has been reached yet, while Bayer may also seek to include a Liverpool player in the deal. Wirtz is reportedly keen on the move, influenced by Liverpool’s clear plan for his role as a number 10 under manager Arne Slot, despite the ongoing speculation and backlash over shirt number rumors. The transfer saga continues as both clubs try to find common ground, with Wirtz maintaining focus on football amid the swirling media reports.