Liverpool ‘can repeat Wataru Endo trick’ with ‘outstanding’ Leeds United ace
Liverpool raised eyebrows when they signed Wataru Endo.
The Japan midfielder joined the Reds in a £16million deal in the summer of 2023 after they had missed out on Moises Caicedo and Romeo Lavia to Chelsea.
The 32-year-old featured 34 times in Jurgen Klopp’s final season as he earned a surprise starting berth at Anfield.
However, he has been forced to settle for a reduced role under Arne Slot but has still proved to be a valuable member of the squad in limited appearances this campaign.
Liverpool could replace Endo with Ao Tanaka
Liverpool could well sell Endo this summer with Ryan Gravenberch having a firm grip on the starting six role.
The former Ajax and Bayern Munich star has transformed his fortunes at Anfield but has started to look tired in recent weeks after playing the most minutes of his career so far.
They will likely be in the market for a backup for the Dutchman if the Japanese ace departs for regular game time.
His compatriot, Leeds United star Ao Tanaka could be the perfect replacement after his stunning emergence in the Championship this season.
His rapid rise to stardom in English football has seen former Aston Villa star Lee Hendrie sing the praises of the 32-cap international.
Speaking on Sky Sports News (11 February, 19:36 pm), he said: “Tanaka, what a signing he has been, I mean he has been outstanding in midfield for them, a real driving force.”
Tanaka would fit in at Liverpool
Tanaka has been a revelation at Elland Road since his £2.9m move from Fortuna Düsseldorf last summer, making 39 appearances and starring in the second tier.
He looks a Premier League player in the making and would likely not cost as much as other options, even if Leeds are promoted to the top-flight.
| Stats (Championship) | Tanaka |
| Matches | 39 |
| Pass accuracy | 89.5% |
| Ground duels won | 179 (56.3%) |
| Aerial duels won | 36 (61%) |
| Recoveries (per 90) | 5.88 |
Daniel Farke’s side are well stocked in the engine room with the likes of Ethan Ampadu, Ilia Gruev and Joe Rothwell and have been linked with a return for Kalvin Phillips, so the 26-year-old could be available for the right price.
If the Reds could secure a deal for the Whites star at a cut-price, it could allow them to allocate more funds to strengthen other areas of the squad in preparation to defend their Premier League crown, if they go on to win it.
With the Reds competing in four different competitions, there will be plenty of chances for him to make his mark and the opportunity to play in the Champions League may be too good to turn down.