Bayer Leverkusen has sparked intrigue with a cryptic social media post featuring their star player Florian Wirtz, amid intensifying rumours of his transfer to Liverpool. The Reds reportedly made an improved offer for the 22 year old on Friday, suggesting a club-record fee exceeding £100million.

Liverpool are believed to have offered up to €130m (£109M), close to Leverkusen's asking price for Wirtz. Speculation is now rampant that Wirtz's move to Anfield could be confirmed soon. German publication Bild suggests an "imminent" deal, hinting it may be finalised within days, while the Telegraph reports a swift conclusion to negotiations due to Wirtz's keenness to join Liverpool. As excitement grows over Wirtz's likely move to Liverpool, Leverkusen's social media antics added to the suspense on Saturday.

The reigning German champions for the 2023/24 season shared five photos of Wirtz with his Player of the Match awards from this season's Champions League, accompanied only by a face exhaling emoji in the otherwise wordless caption.

The vague nature of the post has led many to view it as a sign of Leverkusen's disappointment and reluctant acceptance of the fact they're about to lose such a top-tier talent.

The reference could also be linked to the upcoming Champions League final on Saturday, possibly indicating a touch of bitterness that Leverkusen aren't participating in the grand event in Munich.

Barcelona triumphed over Inter Milan and are now set to face Paris Saint-Germain.

Wirtz has claimed more Player of the Match awards in this season's competition than any other player, with three in his first four matches and five throughout the eight league-phase games. Leverkusen secured sixth place in the league phase but were knocked out in the round of 16 after drawing rivals Bayern Munich.

Just over a week ago, it seemed likely that the German champions Bayern Munich would be Wirtz's next destination, but a surprising twist has seen Liverpool emerge as the front-runners.

German reports suggest that Arne Slot persuaded the Bundesliga player of the season to join Liverpool following an in-depth tactical analysis, while Wirtz was uncertain about his role in Vincent Kompany's plans at Bayern due to Jamal Musiala, who plays in a similar position.

The Leverkusen star, who has earned 29 international caps, prefers to play as a no. 10, but is also comfortable as an attacking midfielder, forward, or even in wide positions.