Florian Wirtz gives subtle response to Liverpool transfer question after Germany’s loss to Portugal in the Nations League

As players made their way through the mixed zone post-match, reporters jostled to speak to the 22-year-old sensation who got on the scoresheet against the Selecao, though that wasn't enough to prevent a 2-1 loss for the hosts on Thursday night. When asked directly if he was excited to finalise his £109 million ($148m) transfer from Bayer Leverkusen to the Premier League champions, Wirtz didn’t respond verbally.

However, a quick glance and a subtle nod were enough to set tongues wagging. The understated reaction has been interpreted as the first clear confirmation that his move to Anfield is likely to go ahead in the coming days.

Liverpool are believed to be closing in on a record-breaking deal to bring Wirtz to Merseyside. The midfielder has been under the Reds' watchful eye for several months, with multiple top European clubs, including Manchester City and Bayern Munich, also interested. Yet reports suggest Wirtz has already made his decision to join the Premier League champions under Arne Slot.

Despite being just 22, Wirtz has already amassed an impressive 197 appearances for Leverkusen, netting 57 goals and assisting 65 more. His performances were instrumental in Leverkusen’s historic 2023-24 Bundesliga title win, achieved under the guidance of Xabi Alonso, a name fondly remembered at Anfield. With the Merseyside club looking to reinforce their squad to challenge for both domestic and European honours next season, Wirtz is expected to be a central piece of their future plans.

Germany’s Nations League journey isn’t over just yet. The team will now compete in the third-place play-off against the loser of the Spain versus France semi-final. Once that fixture is completed, Wirtz is expected to be free to finalise the formalities of his move to Liverpool.