Liverpool transfer news: Reds prepare record offer after Wirtz obstacle revealed

Liverpool are looking to add more talent to their team and negotiations are underway with Leverkusen to secure a deal for Florian Wirtz in a deal that could set a British record

Liverpool wasted little time in getting to work in the transfer market after winning the Premier League title in Arne Slot's first season. The Reds boss inspired his side to victory despite limited transfer activity last summer but there's been a change in tact this year.

The Anfield side have already signed Jeremie Frimpong from Bayer Leverkusen having allowed Trent Alexander-Arnold to exit. The full-back joined Real Madrid a month before his contract expired, with the Merseyside team bringing in £10million.

And now Liverpool are looking to add more talent to their team. Negotiations are underway with Leverkusen to secure a deal for Florian Wirtz in a deal that could set a British record.

Slot is also looking to bolster his options at the back with a bid expected for Milos Kerkez. The Bournemouth defender is expected to add competition for Andy Robertson.

Mirror Football takes a look at the latest transfer news and rumours from around Anfield.

Wirtz obstacle

Bayer Leverkusen still expect Florian Wirtz to join Liverpool despite rejecting two offers, it has been claimed. The Reds' second bid fell short of Leverkusen's £126m asking price but they continue to lead the race to sign the superstar.

According to Bild, Leverkusen higher-ups don't consider the move to be in jeopardy and the transfer fee is the only remaining obstacle. The same outlet reports that Liverpool and Wirtz have already agreed terms.

A players-plus cash deal could offer a solution, while another suggestion is Liverpool could present a bid which will only hit Leverkusen's valuations if bonuses are triggered. Harvey Elliott and Jarell Quansah are among those being touted if the German club get a player as part of the transfer.

Deco on Barca business

Barcelona sporting director Deco says that targets Marcus Rashford and Luis Diaz should not be expecting any imminent transfer offers. In an interview with BBC Sport, the former Portugal international explained the club's priorities currently lie elsewhere.

"We have been focusing on renewing contracts, after that, we'll discuss players to come," he said. "Of course, these two players, like you mentioned, they are good but have contracts in their clubs, so we won't speak because it's not fair. But when you decide to go to the market, for sure, we find some names. In my opinion, we don't need to bring many players.

"When I speak with the agents of the players, everyone wants to come or stay. So this is important. The image of the club is still good. We are proud because Barcelona is still such a big club, and the way we are playing football makes players want to come."

Wirtz approval

Liverpool’s Fenway Sports Group (FSG) ownership have sanctioned the prospect of a British record bid to sign Florian Wirtz, according to reports. The Reds could now make a £118m bid for the Germany ace, a larger fee than Chelsea paid for former Liverpool target Moises Caicedo.

The Anfield side are said to preparing to make their third offer in the coming days having twice not met Bayer Leverkusen's demands.