Liverpool have opened talks with Stuttgart to sign experienced Japanese international Wataru Endo for £18 million as Jurgen Klopp seeks an emergency solution to his defensive midfield problems.
Having missed out on prime targets Romeo Lavia and Moises Caicedo, Klopp and his recruitment team – led by current sporting director Jorg Schmadtke – have turned to the Bundesliga they know so well.
Endo would represent a fix in stark contrast to the expensive, younger midfielders who were the subject of huge bids during the past month. Indeed, aged 30 he is a break from the profile of players who have generally typified the club’s recruitment process.
However, Klopp’s need is great and it would appear that Endo is seen as someone who can immediately fit the bill. Liverpool have occasionally recruited more senior players under FSG, such as Thiago Alcantara and James Milner, when the time and price is right.
Endo has been playing in Germany since 2019 having earlier played in his home country and spent time in Belgium football. He captains his national team.
Since moving to Stuttgart he has made 99 Bundesliga appearances, but there is no doubt he will be regarded as a leftfield remedy to fill the void left by Jordan Henderson and Fabinho.
Last year he was part of the Stuttgart side who narrowly avoided relegation, and although the Anfield move will take many by surprise, seasoned commentators reacted positively.
Endo is described as an aggressive midfielder and an on-field leader who has earned a cult following among the fans of his German side.
A switch to a Liverpool side desperate to return to the level of Premier League title contenders represents a massive leap, but underlines the pressure on the club to add a key component to their midfield.
Liverpool have been linked with various names since failing to lure Caicedo and Lavia, and have been quoted premium prices. So far, they have only made an official move for Endo although it is unclear at this stage what fee Stuttgart will demand.
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