The Krone writes that there were good discussions between Austria Wien and Phillip Verhounig. However, Phillip Verhounig ultimately chose Wolfsberger AC. He explained to the Krone that the perspective and a clear plan for him were the reasons for his decision.

Phillip Verhounig, the 20-year-old Austrian Centre-Forward and captain of FC Liefering and an Austria U21 national team player, was considered a candidate for a transfer as he had only one year remaining on his contract. Austria Wien was reportedly interested in him, but Wolfsberger AC will sign him. According to Sky transfer insider Eric Niederseer, WAC was chosen over both Austria Wien and Swiss champions FC Thun, and the player has already completed his medical. FC Red Bull Salzburg, Liefering's cooperation club, has retained a buy-back option. Verhounig joined FC Liefering in July 2023 and has a current Transfermarkt market value of €350k. In the 2025/2026 2. Liga season, he scored 23 goals and provided 7 assists in 63 appearances.