Liverpool have agreed a deal worth an initial $135 million for Bayer Leverkusen's star player, one which could ultimately break the British transfer record.

Wirtz is the gem of German football and the eye-watering size of the fee underlines his lofty status in Europe.

Wirtz’s arrival is both a tactical upgrade and a symbolic victory. If the trajectory continues, this summer could be remembered not just for who Liverpool bought, but who they beat to do so.