Wirtz Draws Barcelona Interest Amid Liverpool Struggles

Liverpool midfielder Florian Wirtz is attracting attention from European clubs after a difficult spell at Anfield, with former Germany striker Oliver Bierhoff suggesting Barcelona could suit the 23-year-old because of its playing style and teammates.

According to Liverpool Echo and Liverpool.com, Wirtz joined Liverpool in 2025 for a deal worth £116million and has recorded seven goals and 11 assists in 55 appearances for the club.

Wirtz has faced criticism for inconsistent performances since moving from Bayer Leverkusen, while Liverpool remain focused on helping him adapt. Teamtalk reported Liverpool do not plan to sell the German midfielder, who is under contract until summer 2030.

Bierhoff, the former Germany striker and technical director, said Wirtz must rediscover his previous level after his challenging start at Liverpool.

"He is an absolute world-class player who now needs to prove that once again." Bierhoff said.

Bierhoff added that Wirtz needs to show his quality through repeated strong displays and greater influence on matches.

"Specifically, on the pitch with his performances. With consistent performances and by making his mark." Bierhoff said.

The former Germany international explained that Wirtz could succeed in different leagues and highlighted a possible connection with Hansi Flick at Barcelona.

"I actually think he could play for several clubs. When he went to England – based on my assessment of him – I also said he wouldn't let it bother him just because it's a different country." Bierhoff said.

After discussing Wirtz's adaptation to England, Bierhoff continued with his view on possible destinations outside the Premier League.

"So, I also believe he could be successful in other countries. I think he would be a good fit, for example, with Hansi Flick at Barcelona. He has space there, and he has fantastic teammates." Bierhoff said.

Liverpool.com also reported Bierhoff repeated his view that Barcelona under Flick could provide a suitable environment for Wirtz.

"Wirtz would fit in well, for example, at Hansi Flick's Barcelona, where he’ll have space and fantastic teammates," Bierhoff said.

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp praised Wirtz after the midfielder scored for Germany during the international break, saying the player's style matches Liverpool's approach.

"The way we want to play fits Flo Wirtz," Klopp said.

Klopp also discussed Liverpool's overall performance and highlighted improvements in pressing, defending and attacking play.

"Everything. The opening phase, the middle part, and the end." Klopp said.

The Liverpool manager described the team's confidence and willingness to take risks after winning possession.

"Our positioning in the penalty box was incredible. Having the courage to do that: we can take all kinds of liberties and risks when we win the ball back together." Klopp said.

Klopp continued by praising the team's work without and with the ball after the match.

"Everyone was there in our pressing moments. The back line defended brilliantly on the front foot. We were outstanding without the ball, and with the ball we played wonderful football." Klopp said.

The manager said Liverpool must continue developing while acknowledging the challenge of maintaining that level.

"That has to be our baseline. Whether we can always reproduce that remains to be seen. This game goes into my archive.

It’s the next step in our development. We’re learning, after all. Learning under pressure."

Klopp said.

Teamtalk reported Chelsea, Real Madrid, Barcelona and Bayern Munich have been linked with interest in Wirtz, including a possible reunion with Xabi Alonso, who worked with him at Bayer Leverkusen.

A report cited by Teamtalk said Bayern Munich could be among the clubs interested if Liverpool and Wirtz eventually separate.

"If Wirtz and Liverpool decide to go their separate ways in the near future, it’s likely that Bayern will be at the front of the queue." a transfer report said.

The same report also mentioned Chelsea monitoring Wirtz's situation while questioning whether a continued Premier League stay would suit the player and club.

"One source even mentioned Chelsea as someone keeping an eye on the 23-year-old’s situation, but I personally have some doubts about him staying in the Premier League as it suits neither him or Liverpool." a transfer report said.

Liverpool's current position remains to support Wirtz's development, with manager Andoni Iraola expected to continue giving him opportunities after the international break.