Liverpool turn to Stuttgart captain Wataru Endo for midfielder option

• Liverpool have been looking to fill the defensive midfielder void since Henderson and Fabinho left
• They missed on signing Caicedo and Lavia, both of whom joined Chelsea
• The Reds have now turned to Japan international and Stuttgart captain Wataru Endo

Liverpool have initiated discussions with Stuttgart regarding a potential transfer deal involving Wataru Endo, the captain and defensive midfielder of the German club.

Despite their recent setbacks in securing agreements for Moises Caicedo and Romeo Lavia, both of whom chose to join Chelsea instead, Liverpool remains dedicated to reinforcing their midfield options. In their pursuit of additional midfield reinforcements, the club is exploring avenues to enhance their roster. This endeavor aligns with their acquisition of Alexis Mac Allister and Dominik Szoboszlai earlier in the summer transfer window. The financial resources at Liverpool’s disposal have been bolstered by the sales of Fabinho and Jordan Henderson to Saudi Arabian clubs. Notably, a substantial £111 million bid for Caicedo from Brighton had previously been accepted.

In their quest to address the void in their midfield, Liverpool has identified Wataru Endo as a potential solution. Jorg Schmadtke, Liverpool’s newly appointed sporting director, has singled out the 30-year-old Japanese international. Liverpool has taken a proactive step by submitting a formal proposal, offering just over £16 million for Endo’s services. The financial realities at Stuttgart render them unable to disregard a plausible offer for the player. Having been part of the Bundesliga club since 2020, Endo is now within the final year of his existing contract and has thus far declined offers for an extension.

Stuttgart captain and Japan international Wataru Endo is set to make a permanent transfer to Liverpool. | PHOTO: Sky Sports |

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Endo’s aspirations of playing in England were unveiled during the previous season, particularly highlighting his dream of participating in the Champions League. His expressed desire appears to be on the verge of realization as Liverpool’s interest in him signifies the possibility of a Premier League move. In a statement to Kicker, Endo shared his ambition: “I still have the goal of England in mind. Above all, I would like to play in the Champions League one day.”

Stuttgart finds itself in the midst of a dynamic conclusion to the transfer window, with potential departures of their significant assets on the horizon. Alongside Endo, the club faces the prospect of losing Borna Sosa and Konstantinos Mavropanos, both pivotal figures. Financial considerations drive Stuttgart’s actions, as they seek to amass up to €50 million in the current transfer window. This strategy seems to be materializing, as Sosa engages in negotiations with Sevilla, and West Ham edges closer to securing a deal for former Arsenal defender Mavropanos. Should Endo also complete a move to Liverpool, the trio of sales would likely address Stuttgart’s financial concerns effectively.

In essence, Liverpool’s pursuit of Wataru Endo underscores their commitment to fortifying their midfield options. Despite recent transfer disappointments, the club remains proactive in identifying talents that align with its strategic goals. For Endo, this opportunity could mark the realization of his ambition to play in England, potentially in the prestigious arena of the Champions League. Meanwhile, Stuttgart navigates a pivotal juncture, seeking to balance its financial ledger through strategic sales. The evolving transfer landscape hints at a potential transformation for both clubs, as Liverpool aims to solidify their roster and Endo explores a new chapter in his career.