German football legend Oliver Bierhoff believes Florian Wirtz could leave Liverpool for Barcelona, saying the Germany international would thrive alongside the Spanish club’s “fantastic teammates”.
Wirtz joined Liverpool from Bayer Leverkusen for £116M in the summer of 2025. He has since scored seven goals and supplied 11 assists in 55 appearances for the Reds.
The attacking midfielder was praised by former Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp this week after an impressive display against Serbia. Klopp said Liverpool’s style should allow Wirtz to perform at his best.
“Our style of play suits Flo Wirtz,” Klopp said. “I don't even know what Flo has to do right to make everyone happy. Everyone in Liverpool should be happy today.”
However, Wirtz has faced significant criticism from pundits and supporters during his time on Merseyside. His inconsistent performances and perceived lack of physicality in the Premier League have contributed to a mixed beginning at the club, despite showing flashes of world-class ability.
Bierhoff has now suggested that a move away from Liverpool could benefit the 2025 signing, specifically identifying Barcelona as a potential destination under manager Hansi Flick.
“Wirtz would fit in well, for example, at Hansi Flick’s Barcelona, where he’ll have space and fantastic teammates,” Bierhoff said.
“He is a world-class player who now needs to prove it once again with consistent performances and by making his mark.”
Wirtz’s qualities have also been recognised by Spain head coach Luis de la Fuente, who described him as “fantastic” earlier this month. De la Fuente added that it was unfortunate Wirtz did not have a Spanish passport.
The Spain manager currently works with several Barcelona players in his national squad, including Pau Cubarsi, Eric Garcia, Ferran Torres, Pedri, Fermin Lopez, Dani Olmo and Lamine Yamal.
Those players could potentially be Wirtz’s team-mates at club level if the midfielder were able to change nationality, although the article does not state that such a move is being considered or possible.
For now, Wirtz remains a Liverpool player, with his first season following the £116M transfer having produced seven goals and 11 assists in 55 games. Bierhoff’s comments nevertheless add to speculation about whether the 2025 move from Bayer Leverkusen will become a long-term stay on Merseyside.