Real Sociedad president Jokin Aperribay insists Takefusa Kubo is happy at the club amidst Liverpool interest
Real Sociedad president Jokin Aperribay has emphatically stated that Takefusa Kubo is “very happy” at the club, quelling rumours of a potential transfer to Liverpool this summer. Despite speculation linking the Japanese winger with a move to Anfield, Aperribay insisted there have been no negotiations with the Premier League giants.
Liverpool, under new head coach Arne Slot, are actively seeking attacking reinforcements and have reportedly eyed Kubo as a potential long-term replacement for Mohamed Salah. The 23-year-old, often dubbed the “Japanese Messi,” has impressed at Sociedad, prompting interest from several top clubs.
Earlier this week, it was suggested that talks between Kubo’s representatives and Liverpool were in the ‘final stages’, with the Reds ready to trigger the forward’s £54.8 million release clause, a club record for Sociedad. However, senior sources at Liverpool have since dismissed these claims, indicating that Kubo will likely remain in San Sebastian unless there is a dramatic change before the transfer deadline. With Sociedad now more or less downplaying it themselves, it is fair to say that both clubs are in the same boat.
The rumours have cast a shadow over Sociedad’s upcoming pre-season friendly with Gamba Osaka in Kubo’s native Japan. To address the swirling speculation, Aperribay faced the media and clarified the situation (h/t Metro):
“There is no issue. There are no negotiations with any club. We are in the transfer market; anything can happen. But Take is very happy at Real and will stay. We love Kubo very much; we hope he stays at Real forever.”
Sociedad boss Imanol Alguacil also expressed confidence that Kubo would remain with the team as they prepare for the new La Liga season, which kicks off with a home match against Rayo Vallecano on August 18.
“At the moment they are ours and Take is here with us. I hope to count on all of them for next season.”
Kubo joined Sociedad from Real Madrid two years ago and is contracted until the summer of 2029, reinforcing the club’s determination to keep him. Liverpool’s search for attacking talent continues, but as it stands, it appears that Kubo is unlikely to be part of their plans this summer.
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Kubo would have been a valuable addition to Liverpool, especially given Mohamed Salah’s decline. The 23-year-old Japanese star is, however, still a work in progress, and his numbers as of yet do not get one’s pulse racing. However, with the right coaching and the right system, he could thrive. Patience will be necessary as the Reds navigate the transfer market to find the right fit for their squad, and it remains to be seen if the Reds will return for Kubo sometime in the future.
