Florian Wirtz reportedly rejected the chance to join Manchester City after Pep Guardiola failed to promise him one thing.
Over the last few weeks, the future of Bayer Leverkusen star Wirtz has been the talk of the town.
The 22-year-old German had been linked with the likes of Bayern Munich, Liverpool and City.
However, it then emerged that City pulled out of the race to sign the German international, leaving Bayern and Liverpool to battle it out for his signature.
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Earlier in the week, it was claimed that Liverpool had taken the lead in the race to sign Wirtz, with the player himself said to be leaning towards a move to Anfield.
Fabrizio Romano wrote: "Liverpool first official bid for Florian Wirtz in excess of €100m package with add-ons has been received by Bayer Leverkusen.
"Club to club negotiations underway, restarting today to get the deal done very soon. Wirtz already told Bayer that he only wants Liverpool."
Now, it has emerged that Wirtz was the one who rejected advances from City.
As reported by German news outlet BILD, City boss Guardiola failed to confirm he would fulfil his contract until 2027, which led to Wirtz rejecting a move to the Etihad Stadium.
The report stated: "A statement by champion coach Pep Guardiola eventually led to the cancellation of City.
"He underlined his plan with Wirtz to succeed Kevin De Bruyne (33), but clearly expressed that it was not certain whether he would fulfil his contract by 2027. Wirtz then cancelled City (not vice versa)."
Aside from Wirtz, Liverpool have also been linked with Bournemouth star Milos Kerkez.
Romao added: "Understand Milos Kerkez has already said yes to Liverpool project, no issues on personal terms.
"Club to club talks underway with Liverpool also busy on Florian Wirtz deal but in regular contact with Bournemouth. Deal absolutely on."
The Reds are also said to be closing in on completing a deal to sign Wirtz's Leverkusen teammate, Jeremie Frimpong.
Topics: Liverpool, Manchester City, Football, Premier League
Marcus Chan