Liverpool are ready to cash in on Wataru Endo this summer
Liverpool are prepared to part ways with Wataru Endo this summer if they successfully secure a replacement midfielder. According to Football Insider, the club is actively pursuing a deal for Real Sociedad’s Martin Zubimendi, with hopes of finalizing an agreement before the new Premier League season kicks off.
Liverpool’s interest in bolstering their midfield has led them to target Zubimendi, a move that could significantly impact Endo’s standing within the squad. Should the pursuit of the Spaniard fail, the Reds have lined up Adrien Rabiot as an alternative. The acquisition of either player would likely see Endo relegated further down the pecking order at Anfield, leaving him with limited opportunities for first-team action.
Liverpool are open to offers for the Japan international once they secure a new number six. This decision comes after French side Marseille had a £15 million bid for Endo rejected earlier in the transfer window. As the Reds continue to negotiate with Real Sociedad, the possibility of triggering Zubimendi’s £51.7 million release clause remains on the table, a move that would almost certainly signal the end of Endo’s time at Anfield.
The Japanese skipper was brought to Liverpool last August as the club missed out on primary targets Moises Caicedo and Romeo Lavia, who both ended up at Chelsea. The boss Jurgen Klopp was very excited about the midfielder’s acquisition, even admitting to Endo himself how much a player of his profile was needed at Anfield.
Endo quickly established himself as a regular starter, making 20 Premier League starts among his 43 appearances in all competitions last season. Despite his contributions, the potential arrival of a new midfield anchor could see Endo’s role significantly diminished.
From Liverpool’s perspective, cashing in on Wataru Endo could be a strategic move, especially if it facilitates the acquisition of a top-tier midfielder like Zubimendi. While Endo has served the team well, football is a game of constant evolution, and the Reds must adapt to maintain their competitive edge.
More Liverpool News
- Liverpool ready to sanction summer exit for 12G/A attacker
- ‘Unbelievable’ Defender nears Liverpool exit; medical imminent
- Liverpool hold talks with Zubimendi alternative; €45m needed
Regardless of what happens with Endo this summer, the Japanese warrior is a cult hero at Anfield. He has often played his heart out and also run himself into the ground during our Carabao Cup final triumph last season. His standing in club folklore is already written and will be celebrated for years to come.
