More importantly, his dribbling prowess stands out. A profile by Football Talent Scout’s Jacek Kulig lauded him as a nightmare for defenders in one-v-one situations. Supporting this, FBref data places Fofana in the top 2% for progressive carries (6.72 per game) among players in his position across Europe’s big five leagues over the past 12 months.

Leverkusen had wanted €150m, or £126m, and previously rejected two bids from the Premier League champions. But Liverpool have agreed to sign Wirtz for an initial £100m, potentially rising to £116m, making him their club-record signing.

The 22-year-old registered 16 goals and 15 assists across 45 games in 2024-25, as Leverkusen finished second in the Bundesliga.