In the world of big football moves, there are hits, misses, and the ones that got away. For Bayern Munich, Florian Wirtz now falls firmly into that last category.
The 22-year-old Bayer Leverkusen star is on the verge of completing a record-breaking switch to Liverpool, and Bayern’s sporting director Max Eberl has made it clear — they simply couldn’t keep up. Financially, that is.
Eberl, speaking to Sky Germany, didn’t dodge the truth. “If I’m honest, I don’t know if we could have paid what Liverpool are apparently paying now,” he admitted.
“Florian Wirtz is an outstanding player. We could have imagined signing him. But when a door closes, another opens.”
That door, by the way, seems to have led straight into Liverpool’s vault. With reports suggesting the Reds are set to spend north of £100 million on Wirtz — not including add-ons — Bayern were clearly priced out. Not every club can splash cash like they’re in a video game.
Wirtz had a stunning season under Xabi Alonso, with 22 goal involvements in the Bundesliga.
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It’s no wonder he had Europe’s top clubs circling like seagulls near a hotdog stand. But in the end, only one club pulled the trigger — and with some serious firepower.
Bayern eyes new targets after Florian Wirtz rejection
With Wirtz off the table, Bayern may turn their attention to other talents. Chelsea’s Christopher Nkunku is one name reportedly on the radar.
Not a bad Plan B, if you ask Bayern fans. Nkunku’s got flair, pace, and — most importantly — a far more manageable price tag.
Eberl, who also confirmed Bayern will compete in the Club World Cup this summer, added they remain focused on building a strong squad. Even with Leroy Sane gone and Wirtz a missed opportunity, he remains confident.
“We have a clear plan… I’m certain we will have a very strong squad,” he said.
Bayern may have missed their Wirtz wishlist, but with the transfer window still open and Eberl already wheeling and dealing, Bayern may soon sign one of the alternatives.
