Liverpool FC Sign Wataru Endo from Stuttgart for £19m
Liverpool FC have confirmed the signing of Wataru Endo from Stuttgart for a fee in the region of £19m. The Japan international has signed a contract until 2027 and becomes the Reds’ third signing of the summer following the acquisitions of Alexis Mac Allister and Dominik Szoboszlai.
Endo is capable of operating as both a centre-back and right-back, though This Is Anfield understands he has been signed primarily to fulfil the role of defensive midfielder. It is his performances in the latter position that caught the eye of both Jurgen Klopp and Jorg Schmadtke in recent seasons, leading to his shock move to Merseyside this summer. A strong availability record and status as captain of his national team are also thought to have been a major part of his appeal.
What Can Wataru Endo Bring to Liverpool?
Wataru Endo is a versatile player who can play in multiple positions, but it is his defensive midfield role that has caught the eye of Liverpool. He is known for his ability to read the game, break up opposition play, and start attacks with his passing. He is also a good tackler and is comfortable in possession, making him an ideal fit for Jurgen Klopp’s system.
Endo is a leader on the pitch and is respected by his teammates. He is also a strong presence off the pitch, having captained both Stuttgart and Japan. His experience and leadership qualities will be invaluable to Liverpool as they look to build on their recent success.
Jurgen Klopp’s Reaction to the Signing
Speaking to LFCTV regarding the signing, Klopp said: “I’m really happy. Wataru is a really good player. I know in this world of football how it goes and stuff like this, but have a look, have a look, because he’s a really good player. Experienced player, captain of Stuttgart, captain of Japan, speaks good English, nice fella, family man, machine on the pitch, good footballer on top of that, sensational attitude. So, I’m really happy. He’s a good footballer, very experienced and loves to work extremely hard.”
Thiago’s Replacement?
Thiago (32) remains Liverpool’s oldest player in the midfield department but Endo bridges the gap between the Spaniard and the, now, third-youngest midfielder, Mac Allister (24). The 30-year-old has taken the No. 3 shirt number at Liverpool, last worn by Fabinho.
It remains to be seen whether Endo will be able to replicate Thiago’s performances in the midfield for Liverpool, but he certainly has the potential to do so. His experience and leadership qualities will be invaluable to Liverpool as they look to build on their recent success.
Conclusion
Wataru Endo is an exciting signing for Liverpool FC and one that could prove to be a shrewd piece of business for the club. He is a versatile player who can play in multiple positions but it is his defensive midfield role that has caught the eye of Jurgen Klopp. He has experience and leadership qualities that will be invaluable to Liverpool as they look to build on their recent success. It remains to be seen whether Endo will be able to replicate Thiago’s performances in the midfield for Liverpool, but he certainly has the potential to do so.