When Florian Wirtz joins Liverpool, he might become the most expensive player in British football history. However, Moises Caicedo, the current recipient of that honor, is not upset about losing it.
In order to sign Wirtz, the Reds and Bayer Leverkusen have reached an agreement that could ultimately cost them £116 million. The midfield player will fetch a guaranteed £100 million from Liverpool, with possible realistic add-ons covering the remaining £16 million.
Wirtz will break the record if those conditions are met. Two years ago, Caicedo paid £115 million to join Chelsea.
The Ecuadorian is currently at the Club World Cup with his team. He was questioned about Wirtz’s arrival on Merseyside prior to their first game on Monday night against Los Angeles FC.
According to Sky Sports News, “I didn’t know Liverpool were going to pay that,” he said. “It’s good that Wirtz might be able to charge £1 million more than him.”
“He’s a fantastic player, yes. He is a very good player, and I believe that everyone watching can see it. I’m glad to learn that he will be joining the Premier League.
A few years ago, Liverpool was in the running to sign Caicedo with Chelsea, and Brighton & Hove Albion accepted their bid of £111 million.
However, the playmaker ultimately decided to relocate to the London club. Caicedo was named the team’s Player of the Year after regaining some of his form in his second Chelsea season after a difficult debut.
Ryan Gravenberch was given the chance to play as the team’s deep-sitting midfielder after Liverpool lost out on Caicedo. He was excellent in this position last season as the team won the Premier League.
When he gets there, Wirtz will play more attacking roles. The 22-year-old finished the previous Bundesliga season with 10 goals and 12 assists.