By Daniel Edu
Liverpool Football Club has finalized the acquisition of Japanese midfielder Wataru Endo from the German Bundesliga team Stuttgart.
In a deal worth 19 million euros, Liverpool successfully secured the services of the 30-year-old player, who also serves as the captain of the Japan national team.
Regrettably, due to pending work permit formalities, Wataru Endo won’t be eligible to participate in the upcoming match against Bournemouth on Saturday, August 19, at 3 p.m.
Endo has entered into a four-year contract with Liverpool, binding him to Anfield until June 30, 2027.
While Wataru Endo has demonstrated his versatility as a center-back, Liverpool has enlisted him primarily as a defensive midfielder.
Jurgen Klopp, the team’s coach, has brought in Wataru Endo as a reinforcement following the departures of key midfield figures such as Fabinho, Jordan Henderson, James Milner, Naby Keita, and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain earlier in the summer transfer window.
Reflecting on his move to Liverpool, Endo expressed his excitement, stating, “This is an incredible feeling. Playing in the Premier League and representing one of the world’s greatest clubs has always been my dream. It’s truly a dream come true.”
He added, “I believe I can contribute defensively to the club, and I aim to bring strong organization to the midfield.”
Having already earned 50 caps for Japan, Wataru Endo initially joined Stuttgart in 2019 on a season-long loan from Belgian club Sint-Truiden, a move that was later solidified into a permanent deal a year later.
Jurgen Klopp shared his enthusiasm about the acquisition, remarking, “I’m absolutely thrilled. Wataru is an exceptional player, boasting substantial experience and a tremendous work ethic.”
