Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers is reportedly considering a move for Liverpool’s experienced midfielder Wataru Endo in the upcoming transfer window. The 32-year-old Japanese international joined Liverpool from VfB Stuttgart in 2023 for a fee of £16.2 million. Former Liverpool boss Jürgen Klopp praised Endo as a hardworking player with an exceptional attitude, calling him a “machine on the pitch.” Despite his strong reputation, Endo has struggled for regular game time under Liverpool’s new manager, Arne Slot, raising speculation about a possible summer exit.
Endo arrived at Liverpool as part of a significant midfield overhaul that saw the club bring in Alexis Mac Allister and Dominik Szoboszlai following the departures of Jordan Henderson and Fabinho. While Mac Allister and Szoboszlai have become integral members of the starting lineup, Endo has found himself playing more of a rotational role this season. Under Klopp’s management last season, he started 20 Premier League matches. However, under Slot’s tenure, he has yet to start a single league game and has only managed 140 minutes of Champions League action before Liverpool’s early elimination. Given his current contract runs until 2027, his future remains uncertain, but a summer move appears increasingly likely.
Rodgers is keen on bolstering Celtic’s midfield, and Endo is among the key targets under consideration. The Scottish giants are currently leading the Premiership table, maintaining a healthy advantage over rivals Rangers. They have already secured the Scottish League Cup and are competing for further silverware in the Scottish Cup semi-finals. Adding a player of Endo’s experience and leadership could provide valuable depth as Celtic looks to maintain their dominance in domestic competitions while aiming for a stronger European campaign next season.
However, Celtic is not the only club vying for Endo’s signature. AC Milan has shown interest in bringing the Japanese star to Serie A, while Premier League sides Wolves, Fulham, and newly promoted Ipswich Town are also considering a move. Reports suggest that Liverpool is open to offloading multiple players this summer, and Endo could be among those deemed surplus to requirements. This aligns with earlier reports indicating that Liverpool is preparing for a squad reshuffle, making the midfielder’s potential exit a real possibility.
Beyond Endo, Liverpool’s transfer plans include potential departures for other players, including Federico Chiesa. The Italian winger, who joined Liverpool from Juventus in 2024, has struggled with injuries and has failed to secure a consistent starting spot. Napoli is reportedly interested in signing Chiesa, though he may have to accept a pay cut to return to Serie A. Additionally, Liverpool has been linked with Barcelona forward Ferran Torres as they look to strengthen their attacking options. Meanwhile, former Liverpool striker Stan Collymore has voiced concerns about Darwin Núñez’s performances, suggesting that the Uruguayan striker may not have a long-term future at Anfield. With a busy summer transfer window ahead, Liverpool fans can expect significant changes to their squad.
