Could Liverpool Part Ways With £116m Florian Wirtz After Struggles in Premier League?

Florian Wirtz joined Liverpool in 2025 for a record £116 million ($157m), making him briefly the most expensive signing in British football history. The German playmaker, 23, arrived amid high expectations after winning the Bundesliga with Bayer Leverkusen and was expected to quickly shine in the Premier League. Yet his impact has been limited, leading to growing doubts about his future at Anfield.

Wirtz's Performance So Far

The opening season of 2025-26 saw Liverpool struggle as a team, and Wirtz contributed just seven goals and seven assists. Fans and pundits alike had hoped for more from him, and those numbers have sparked questions about his ability to adapt and influence matches at this level.

When Transfer Talk Might Arise

Former Liverpool midfielder Dietmar Hamann, also German, recently shared his thoughts with GOAL and Betinia NJ on Wirtz's situation. Hamann said Liverpool won’t wait indefinitely for Wirtz to find form. He suggested the club might decide within two seasons whether to keep him long-term.

"He’s got to start playing well. He has to start influencing the game," Hamann said. "He needs respect from teammates, which comes when he consistently impacts matches by setting up or scoring goals. Right now, that hasn’t happened enough."

"If things don’t improve in the next few weeks, especially before the international break, there will be plenty of talk about whether Liverpool made the right choice buying him. If no progress happens, a winter move could be possible."

Position Debate: No.10 or Wide Forward?

Wirtz's best role on the pitch remains debated. Some see him as a classic playmaking No.10, while others believe he might be better suited as a wide forward cutting inside. Hamann weighed in on this too, emphasizing the pressure on Wirtz to deliver regardless of position.

"He was bought to be the main man," Hamann explained. "If he can’t create chances or score enough goals, then others will take his place, especially with new signings like Bradley Barcola arriving. It’s a tough spot for any player in England."

Looking Ahead for Liverpool and Wirtz

Currently under coach Andoni Iraola, Liverpool have started the 2026-27 season with two draws against Newcastle and Nottingham Forest, gathering just two points. Wirtz remains contracted until 2030 but must raise his level quickly to justify that commitment.

The Reds will next face newly promoted Ipswich Town on September 4th, hoping to gain momentum and see signs of Wirtz reaching his potential.

• Transfer Fee: £116 million ($157m)
• Age: 23
• Goals (2025-26): 7
• Assists (2025-26): 7
• Contract Length: Until 2030
• 2026-27 Season Start: 2 draws (vs Newcastle and Nottingham Forest)
• Next Match: Ipswich Town vs Liverpool, 4 Sept 2026