Liverpool are counting the costs of the failed transfer

Liverpool counts the costs for the unsuccessful transfer

According to Sports.

Background

Florian Wirtz, the 23-year-old German, was signed from Bayer Leverkusen in the summer of 2025 and was expected to play a central role in Liverpool's attack. However, his performances so far have raised questions about his future at the Premier League club, particularly when compared to other talents such as Rayan Cherki.

Why this is important

The situation surrounding Florian Wirtz raises serious questions about Liverpool's transfer strategy. As one of the club's most expensive players, his performance has been viewed critically, especially when compared to Rayan Cherki, who has shone at Manchester City. These developments could affect the future of the squad and plans for the next transfer window.

Key findings

• Liverpool counts the costs for the unsuccessful transfer.
• Richard Hughes' time at Liverpool is being viewed critically, especially after Florian Wirtz's poor performances, while Rayan Cherki impressed at Manchester City and questions the Reds' transfer decisions.
• Liverpool counting the cost of £85m Richard Hughes transfer botch.

Richard Hughes has left Liverpool with a mixed legacy. As sporting director of the Reds, who won their 20th title, the Scottish manager has undoubtedly had his share of success. But Andoni Iraola now finds himself faced with an unbalanced squad that lacks depth in crucial areas. This became clear on Sunday when Manchester City won 3-0 in the Premier League duel against Liverpool. While City was able to field a strong replacement in Jeremy Doku, the home team had to rely on players like Federico Chiesa and Joe Gomez from the bench. Another obvious problem is that Hughes' former star signing, Florian Wirtz, is increasingly seen as a transfer flop. The 23-year-old German also showed a poor performance in this important game, was often inaccurate in his P passes and disappeared in the decisive phase of the game. Questions about the future of the 116 million euro player, who arrived from Bayer Leverkusen in the summer of 2025, are becoming increasingly louder. Wirtz was supposed to be the central element in the Reds' attack, but so far this strategy hasn't worked. In contrast, Rayan Cherki, the Frenchman, shines, scoring his third goal at Anfield to lead City to victory after a solid international spell in the Premier League. With 16 goals and 18 assists in just over a season, Cherki clearly outperforms Wirtz in the English league. The frustrating realization for Liverpool is that Cherki, who has since moved to City for just over €30 million, would also have been an option for the Reds. Former head coach Arne Slot visited the then Lyon playmaker in the summer of 2025 to plan a change in Liverpool's attacking game. But instead of completing a deal, he informed the French player that his services were not needed. Instead, Liverpool focused on signing Wirtz as their main signing. The total for Wirtz could be 85 million euros higher than the 30 million that City paid for Cherki. Unless the situation changes drastically soon, this transfer will go down as one of the biggest mistakes in Liverpool history. Meanwhile, Cherki is thriving in City Blue, showing huge potential at a fraction of the cost. Whether and how these transfer stories will develop remains to be seen, especially given the looming consequences for Manchester City due to 114 rule violations in the Premier League. In the meantime, the fans are enjoying the performance of the versatile playmaker Cherki, who wins the battle against the nine-figure transfer flop Wirtz.

What happens next

If Wirtz continues to perform poorly, Liverpool could be forced to look for a new midfielder in the upcoming summer transfer window. Dissatisfaction with his form could also lead to a rethink in player development to improve balance in the squad. The Reds may also need to rethink their priorities in the transfer market to remain competitive.

Frequently asked questions

Who is Florian Wirtz?

Florian Wirtz is a 23-year-old German player who moved to Liverpool from Bayer Leverkusen.

From which club did Florian Wirtz come to Liverpool?

Florian Wirtz came from Bayer L. in the summer of 2025 everkusen to Liverpool.

Why is Florian Wirtz considered a transfer flop?

Florian Wirtz is considered a transfer flop because he shows poor performances in important games and is often inaccurate in his passes.

How high was the transfer fee for Florian Wirtz?

The transfer fee for Florian Wirtz was 116 million euros.

When did Florian Wirtz's transfer become official?

Florian Wirtz's transfer became official in the summer of 2025.

Related articles

• Deco prioritizes Gordon transfer for FC Barcelona
• Atlético Madrid plan to transfer Manchester United captain
• Bernardo Silva's strange situation at Real Madrid

• Liverpool ready to fail on high-profile transfer