There was a surprise for Liverpool fans on Wednesday when it was announced that the Anfield hierarchy had agreed a deal with Stuttgart for Wataru Endo.
The Japan international is set to undergo his medical on Thursday and could be in the Reds squad for the match with Bournemouth at the weekend.
Jurgen Klopp has seen his midfield options dwindle this summer with the loss of Jordan Henderson and Fabinho to Saudi clubs.
Their exits followed those of James Milner, Naby Keita, and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain who departed at the end of their contracts.
Endo’s versatility will aid Klopp as he is equally comfortable in midfield or defence.
Just as vital though is likely to be the experience and leadership he will offer as both Stuttgart’s and Japan’s current captain.
Whilst the signing of the 30-year-old for a reported fee of €19million has met mixed reaction amongst Liverpool fans, the Stuttgart faithful have shown how much he meant to the Bundesliga club.
It would seem from their reactions that this may be smart business by Klopp and sporting director Jorg Schmadtke.
Read More Liverpool Coverage:
- Curtis Jones To Miss Liverpool’s Clash Against Bournemouth Due To Ankle Injury
- Liverpool Not Close To Agreement For Fiorentina Midfielder Sofyan Amrabat
- Liverpool Goalkeeper Alisson Becker Not Subject Of Approach From Saudi Arabia
- BREAKING: Liverpool to Sign Midfielder Wataru Endo for £15million
- Report: Fiorentina Midfielder Sofyan Amrabat Is Close To Joining Liverpool
- Report: Cheick Doucoure And Boubacar Kamara Are Admired By Liverpool
- Report: Liverpool Expected To Try For Bayern Munich Midfielder Ryan Gravenberch