Liverpool have agreed a deal to sign 30-year-old midfielder Wataru Endo from Stuttgart.
The Japan international, who played four times in the FIFA World Cup 2022, has signed a long-term contract with Liverpool and will wear the No 3 shirt, subject to international clearance and work permit application.
"It feels amazing and this is my dream. It's always [been] a dream to play [in the] Premier League and with one of the biggest clubs in the world. It's a dream come true for me," Endo told the club's official website.
Welcome, @wataru0209 🇯🇵 pic.twitter.com/sAXa6P2ju1
— Liverpool FC (@LFC) August 18, 2023
"I play as a No 6 and I'm like a bit more [of a] defensive player. I think I can help this club defensively and I will have good organisation in the middle. I think that's my job.
"I am very excited to join this club and I am looking forward to seeing you at Anfield!"
Endo joins Liverpool after the club had reportedly attempted to bring in Moises Caicedo and Romeo Lavia who both joined Chelsea instead.
Jorg Schmadtke, Liverpool’s sporting director, is said to have played a big role in recruiting Endo.
The signing could prove to be an astute one by Liverpool. Only four players created more chances from open play than Endo in the Bundesliga last season and although he stands at 5ft 10in, no midfielder won more than his 219 aerial duels during his time in the German top flight, winning 2.2 from 3.7 per 90 minutes.
Liverpool fans could see their new signing in action this Saturday when they host AFC Bournemouth at Anfield.
