Liverpool manager Arne Slot has finally responded to mounting speculation over a potential player swap involving Mohamed Salah and Florian Wirtz, after Bayer Leverkusen rejected the Reds’ second bid for the German midfielder.

Wirtz, who has emerged as one of Europe’s most exciting attacking talents, remains Liverpool’s top target this summer. After an initial offer worth €105 million including add-ons was turned down, the Merseyside club returned with an improved package reportedly worth €121 million. However, Kicker in Germany reports that Leverkusen have once again refused the deal, holding firm to their €150 million valuation.

Amid ongoing negotiations, rumors surfaced that Liverpool might consider an even more dramatic move — offering Mohamed Salah as part of a potential swap deal to meet Leverkusen’s demands. Speaking after Liverpool’s trophy celebration, Arne Slot addressed the speculation head-on:

🎙️ “Let me be very clear — Mohamed Salah is not part of any swap deal. He’s a legend of this club and still one of the most decisive players in the world. We want Wirtz, yes, but not at the cost of losing Salah,” Slot told Sky Sports.

Slot continued: “Florian Wirtz is an exceptional talent and fits our vision for the future. We’ve made two strong offers, and we’re still in discussions. But we won’t be reckless. We want to build, not dismantle.”

Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano added weight to Slot’s comments, reporting: “Liverpool are 100% focused on signing Wirtz. No negotiations have involved Salah. Leverkusen rejected the second bid — talks ongoing, but it won’t include Mo Salah.”

Leverkusen CEO Fernando Carro reaffirmed their stance earlier this week, stating: “We won’t let Wirtz go unless the offer matches our valuation. He’s crucial to our project.”

Liverpool have also considered sweetening the deal with player exchanges, proposing Harvey Elliott and Jarell Quansah as part of the package to reduce the overall fee. Meanwhile, they’ve already agreed to pay £29 million to trigger Jeremie Frimpong’s release clause — further strengthening ties between the two clubs.

With Manchester City and Bayern Munich no longer in the race, Wirtz is reportedly pushing for a move to Anfield following direct talks with Liverpool’s hierarchy. But as it stands, Slot is unwilling to sacrifice a club icon to make it happen.

The saga continues, but Liverpool’s intent is clear — bring Wirtz to Anfield, without losing their king.