Liverpool Consider Rodrygo as Wirtz Questions Emerge Ahead of Key Transfer Decision
Liverpool’s evolving rebuild under Arne Slot has entered a delicate phase, with senior figures at Anfield assessing whether the current attacking balance is capable of sustaining a genuine title challenge. Amid that internal review, fresh attention has turned towards Real Madrid forward Rodrygo, according to Fichajes, with sources indicating the Brazilian is being discussed as a potential alternative solution should confidence in Florian Wirtz’s fit continue to waver.
The situation is not framed as an imminent exit for Wirtz, but rather as part of a wider strategic conversation taking place behind the scenes. Liverpool have invested heavily in reshaping their attacking structure, yet there is an acceptance that adjustments may still be required to align personnel with Slot’s tactical priorities.
Liverpool Attacking Structure Under Review
Liverpool’s attacking output has been inconsistent across the opening months of 2026, with creative fluency often stalling against compact opposition. While the tactical framework is still bedding in, recruitment staff are understood to be analysing whether the current profile of attacking midfielders and wide players offers the correct blend of pace, directness and final-third penetration.
Wirtz, signed at significant expense, has shown flashes of quality without fully dictating games in the manner anticipated. Internally, there remains belief in the German’s long-term value, but there is also recognition that his strongest attributes are central rather than touchline-based. That positional nuance has influenced wider conversations around squad balance.
Rodrygo, by contrast, is viewed as a natural wide forward capable of operating in high-tempo systems, offering penetration from the flank while maintaining technical control in tight spaces.
Rodrygo Profile Fits Slot Preferences
At 24, Rodrygo arrives with elite-level experience across domestic and European competition, having won major honours in Spain while operating alongside some of the game’s most dominant attackers. Despite periods of fluctuating form over the past year, his output across multiple seasons places him among the most productive wide forwards in Europe.
Liverpool analysts value his versatility, pressing intelligence and ability to attack defenders in isolation. Those attributes are considered especially relevant given Slot’s emphasis on verticality, rapid transitions and width-driven overloads.
While Real Madrid remain well-stocked in attacking areas, Rodrygo’s long-term role is understood to be less clearly defined than in previous campaigns. That uncertainty has prompted interest from multiple Premier League clubs, with Liverpool monitoring developments closely.
Wirtz Future Not Immediate but Not Ignored
Despite speculation, Liverpool are not actively seeking to offload Wirtz, nor is there any indication of dissatisfaction from the player’s camp. However, senior figures accept that squad planning must remain fluid, particularly when elite-level investment is involved.
Wirtz’s technical strengths remain clear, yet the absence of sustained attacking rhythm has raised questions about optimal deployment. With Dominik Szoboszlai increasingly influential in central areas, competition for similar zones has intensified.
Any move for Rodrygo would be framed less as a direct replacement and more as a recalibration of roles, ensuring Liverpool possess varied attacking options capable of adapting to different opposition profiles.
Market Conditions and Next Steps
Financially, Liverpool are aware that securing Rodrygo would require a significant outlay, with Spanish reports suggesting figures in excess of £75m would be required. Arsenal and Manchester City are also monitoring the situation, increasing the likelihood of competition should Real Madrid open the door to negotiations.
For now, Liverpool’s approach remains exploratory rather than aggressive. No formal bid has been submitted, and any movement is likely to be dictated by developments later in the window.
What is clear, however, is that Liverpool’s hierarchy are unwilling to stand still. With title margins increasingly fine, incremental upgrades are viewed as necessary rather than optional. Rodrygo’s profile fits that philosophy, while Wirtz’s future role continues to be assessed within a broader tactical context rather than in isolation.
