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Joe Cole believes that Florian Wirtz represents the standout acquisition of the summer in the Premier League, describing Liverpool's capture of the Bayer Leverkusen sensation as a "massive statement."
The Reds have emerged as the division's most prolific spenders after splashing close to $400 million to reinforce Arne Slot's squad across all areas of the pitch. However, their domestic competitors have also committed substantial funds to new talent ahead of the forthcoming 2025-26 campaign.
Arsenal invested heavily in securing a striker through Viktor Gyokeres, whilst Manchester United have transformed their attacking options by acquiring Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo, and Benjamin Sesko for considerable eight-figure fees.
Yet Cole believes securing Wirtz - brought in for a British record of up to $156M - stands as the transfer masterstroke of the summer in the Premier League.
"Liverpool have made a massive statement," Cole told TNT Sports. "When you see a player who can slow the game down like he can when he's on the ball, he's absolutely brilliant.
"I think it's the signing of the summer. When was the last time Liverpool made a signing like this?
"For me it's the statement signing. He's the best young player in the world and they've just spent over £100 million to get him. He's just a natural footballer.
"The more we talk about Liverpool and their new signings, I just can't see past them for the title now.
"For me they are the most clear favourites to win the league we've had in the last ten years. The best have got better again and they've raised the bar."
Owen Hargreaves echoed Cole's admiration for Wirtz, who achieved double figures in both goals and assists in the Bundesliga last season.
"Florian Wirtz is really unique and that's probably why they signed him," he added.
"In those tight spaces he's probably the best in the world and he's a good finisher as well. He's learnt to be the focal point and actually get goals and assists.
"As much as he cost, I think people will be surprised by how amazing he is. He just gives Liverpool something different. This kid is very unique.
"The only problem for him is the price-tag because he's so expensive and people are going to expect crazy numbers, but he will give Liverpool something different."
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