There’s a clear reason why Richard Hughes and Michael Edwards command such high salaries in their respective roles.
Liverpool’s sporting director, Hughes, and FSG’s CEO of football, Edwards, are reportedly close to sealing a club-record deal for Florian Wirtz, potentially worth €150 million (£127 million). According to Fabrizio Romano, a “verbal agreement” has already been reached with Bayer Leverkusen.
If finalized, the transfer would be a major signal of Liverpool’s ambition as they look to defend their Premier League title. The club’s leadership has been particularly proactive in trying to complete the move.
FSG has reportedly been “blown away” by the work of Hughes as Liverpool nears the signing of Wirtz. Journalist Graeme Bailey shared insights into the timing and behind-the-scenes activity of the deal, stating (via TBR Football):
“Wirtz will be a Liverpool player by the weekend. Getting this sorted now gives him time to rest before pre-season. He’s entering a busy World Cup cycle, so early completion was crucial.”
Bailey added that Liverpool is thrilled with how the deal has been handled. FSG, in particular, has been extremely impressed with the efforts of both Hughes and Edwards, who have been working diligently on this transfer long before June.
“Liverpool are already the best on the pitch in the Premier League, and it’s tough to argue they aren’t leading off it too,” Bailey noted.
Since stepping into his role over a year ago, Hughes has achieved significant milestones. Though he faced some fan criticism for a lack of transfer activity last summer and winter, he played a key role in securing vital contract renewals for Mo Salah and Virgil van Dijk.
Recently, Hughes completed the signing of Jeremie Frimpong for £29.5 million and is close to finalizing a deal for Milos Kerkez. Now, he’s on the verge of delivering a marquee signing in Wirtz.
Should the deal go through in the coming days, Wirtz would have ample time to settle in before the 2025/26 campaign kicks off. While the transfer fee is substantial, rival clubs will no doubt envy Liverpool if they secure the German star, reinforcing their position as a powerhouse both on and off the field.
Credit is due not only to Arne Slot and the players but also to the sharp strategic minds of Hughes and Edwards in the boardroom.