Liverpool may be setting the stage for a potential transfer for out-of-favor midfielder Wataru Endo, with reports suggesting the club has established a price range for his exit.
The experienced Japanese international, who joined last summer under Jürgen Klopp, has struggled to find a place in Arne Slot’s Liverpool side. After being an important addition last season with 43 appearances, Endo’s role has diminished under the new management, limited to just eight appearances this season, averaging only 21 minutes per game.
With no Premier League or Champions League starts so far, Endo’s frustration over limited opportunities seems to be mounting, and he’s reportedly keen to explore other options. According to a report from Caught Offside, Liverpool values Endo in the €15-18 million range (approximately £12.5-£14.9 million). Though this would represent a small loss on their initial £16 million investment, the club likely didn’t expect significant profit on a player of Endo’s age.
A notable suitor for Endo appears to be AC Milan, who admire his versatility and experience and could offer him the chance to make his Serie A debut. Staying closer to home remains an option as well, with interest from Celtic, Fulham, Ipswich Town, and Wolves reportedly on the table. Endo’s ability to adapt to various roles could be a valuable asset to these clubs, all of whom could provide the consistent playing time he’s seeking.
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The speculation around Endo’s potential departure highlights Liverpool’s balancing act between meeting players’ ambitions and maintaining squad depth, especially for a title-challenging season. While the latest reports hint at an amicable parting of ways, Liverpool’s stance on transfers has been mixed. Earlier in the season, Endo expressed his willingness to contribute under Slot’s system, even with a reduced role. However, recent reports from Football Insider suggested Liverpool is keen to block mid-season exits for unsettled players like Endo, aiming to retain depth in pursuit of the title.
This new price tag, coming just days after the claim Liverpool might resist selling him, raises questions about the club’s evolving transfer stance. Yet, if Endo has made it clear he wants to move, Liverpool could feel obligated to honor his wishes by setting an achievable price in the January window.
The timing of a potential Endo sale also raises the prospect of Liverpool needing to strengthen their midfield. With Martin Zubimendi’s rejection in the summer, Liverpool may need to revisit other targets to fill a defensive midfield role if Endo departs.
Beyond Endo, Liverpool faces other high-stakes contract situations. Vice-captain Trent Alexander-Arnold’s future remains a concern as he enters the final year of his contract amidst links to Real Madrid. Some reports suggest Liverpool already knows what the England international plans to do. Mohamed Salah is also in the last year of his contract, a long-standing target for the Saudi Pro League, though recent developments hint a European club could now be in the lead to sign him.
In parallel, Liverpool may have plans to reinvigorate their attack, potentially seeking a prolific goalscorer to make up for a possible Salah departure. The evolving situation around Endo is just one part of the puzzle as Liverpool navigates the challenges of maintaining a competitive squad while adapting to the aspirations of individual players.
