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Florian Wirtz is the name dominating headlines ahead of the summer transfer window, and a deal for the Germany international could prove to be one of the defining moves of the window. Just a
week ago, the 22-year-old wasn't on many Liverpool fans’ radar, with Manchester City and Bayern Munich the only clubs heavily linked. However, recent reports suggest the Reds are now
firmly in the race, despite the prevailing belief that Wirtz is more likely to stay in Germany, either by remaining at Bayer Leverkusen or joining Bayern. That said, until a final decision
is made, the race remains open and Liverpool will be looking for any edge they can get. Their first incoming transfer of the summer could provide just that. Although it has not yet been
officially announced - likely due to Liverpool waiting until after the Premier League finale this weekend and the subsequent title celebrations on Monday - Jeremie Frimpong is expected to be
the first signing in what looks set to be a busy summer at Anfield. The Reds weren’t particularly active in the transfer market following Arne Slot’s appointment 12 months ago, but early
signs suggest the head coach will be given the opportunity to put his stamp on the title-winning squad. Frimpong represents a straightforward piece of business due to the release clause in
his contract with Bayer Leverkusen, and his arrival is seen as both smart and exciting. He and Wirtz have enjoyed huge success together in recent years, including winning the Bundesliga
title in 2023/24, and are known to be good friends. If the reports are anything to go by, it will be Wirtz's desire to remain in Germany that could sway the outcome in Bayern's
favour. That said, while it’s unlikely that simply following his friend will drive his decision, the prospect of joining Frimpong at Anfield could ease the transition to a new country and
league for the first time in his career. Wirtz was born in Pulheim, a town just outside Cologne, and began his youth career with SV Grun-Weis Brauweiler before joining FC Koln and later
Bayer Leverkusen, meaning he’s spent his entire footballing life within the North Rhine region. With many of Germany’s brightest talents eventually making the move to Munich, it remains to
be seen whether the lure of Anfield can convince Wirtz to step out of his comfort zone and test himself abroad.