Japan midfielder Wataru Endo has dropped down the pecking order in the team following the appointment of Arne Slot as manager.His playing time has been drastically reduced as Dutch midfielder Ryan Gravenberch, who plays regularly, continues to perform at the top level.
Liverpool are also keen to secure a new defensive midfielder, as they were close to acquiring Spanish midfielder Martin Zubimendi this summer. Although the Dutch captain has expressed his hopes for the veteran Japanese midfielder, rumours of his departure have smouldered.
According to CaughtOffside, Liverpool are prepared to listen to offers to sell the player, with Ipswich Town, Fulham and Wolverhampton Wanderers all tracking developments.
The 31-year-old midfielder joined Liverpool from Stuttgart in the summer of 2023 and gradually won the trust of manager Jurgen Klopp, making 43 appearances last season. He showed his ability to win the ball from high up the field and contributed to Liverpool’s third-placed finish in the Premier League.
He has captained the national team and has been on the pitch for 65 games. He has made few appearances this season, but he has shone in some scenes and could be in contention for a place in the starting line-up from around the end of the year, as he was last season.
Will Liverpool secure a new midfielder this winter and release the Japanese midfielder?