Liverpool may loan Florian Wirtz in January, with a Christmas deadline set by a German Reds legend.

Liverpool talent Florian Wirtz has until Christmas to demonstrate his potential – or he could be loaned out as early as January.

Wirtz became Liverpool's record signing when he transferred from Bayer Leverkusen during the summer, shortly before the Reds further strengthened their lineup by acquiring Alexander Isak for an even greater fee.

It was a transfer window full of ambition for Merseyside, with players like Hugo Ekitike, Jeremie Frimpong, and Milos Kerkez joining the Premier League champions. However, just four months into the season, manager Arne Slot finds his squad languishing in the lower half of the table.

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Liverpool's Florian Wirtz Facing Possible Exit Over Underwhelming Performance

Wirtz has appeared frustrated this season, frequently changing positions and occasionally sitting on the bench, as Slot tries to establish a rhythm with his new lineup.

The Reds have suffered six losses in their last seven Premier League matches and are reeling from a disappointing 4-1 defeat at home to PSV in the Champions League, with Wirtz particularly under scrutiny for his lackluster performances this term.

Recently, fellow German and former Liverpool player Dietmar Hamann shared with Coin Poker that he believes Wirtz must prove his worth by Christmas or risk a loan deal in January.

“Florian Wirtz has had opportunities to shine,” Hamann stated. “He has had chances over the last six to eight weeks, during which the team hasn't really clicked since the season began.

“I think he has until Christmas to demonstrate his value, which is challenging given the current team dynamics. If he doesn’t step up by then, I believe the club will discuss with him what’s best for both parties.

“Could Florian Wirtz still leave Liverpool on loan in January? Yes. With the investment made in him, expectations are high, even if he is still quite young, and there’s hope he can make an impact.”

“At the moment, I don’t think he’s showing the capability to do that. When I watch him, I sometimes wonder if he has lost confidence in the Premier League. Occasionally, when he loses possession, it seems to reflect the quicker, more physical nature of the league, and I wonder if he's thinking: ‘Maybe this isn't for me.’

“I hope I’m mistaken, but this is how it appears to me. When things persist for too long, it becomes very challenging to change direction.”

eScored reports that Liverpool currently has no intentions of allowing Wirtz to leave in January, having invested a nine-figure sum to secure his services. However, Hamann rightly points out the concerning form. It seems much more likely that Wirtz will receive an opportunity under a new manager if Slot departs either during or at the end of the season, before the club considers parting ways with the young star.

Wirtz's market value is estimated at €130 million, according to Transfermarkt. Liverpool will be visiting West Ham United when Premier League action resumes this weekend.