Journalist and transfer guru Fabrizio Romano says Klopp was a key factor and pushed to sign the Japanese international Wataru Endo from Stuttgart.
Liverpool needed a significant midfield overhaul, and Klopp was critical to most transfers. Of course, the new sporting director, Jorg Schmadtke, was influential in all the transfers. But Klopp was always going to have his way on his squad.
Klopp pushed to sign Watru Endo for his Liverpool squad
While taking to Twitter, Fabrizio mentioned that Klopp wanted to sign Endo from Stuttgart. It was a surprise transfer as they were aiming for younger midfielders. Though not young, Endo is proving good for the Reds.
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“Liverpool were 100% convinced of Wataru Endo going to be an important player this season… and also a bargain signing.
Told Klopp made the difference as he approved Endo — considered ‘perfect, serious player’ and ‘top professional for cheap price’. Fee: €18m.”
Said the journalist.
After several signings of Mac Allister and Dominik Szoboszlai, the Reds shockingly went for Endo. Costing a mere £17m, Endo was seen as a back-up player whose professionalism could be handy. He has proved worth the amount and has been a good player for Klopp.
The Japan international has found his feet over the festive period. Having started each of Liverpool’s last seven games, Endo has become a key figure recently.
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With Mac Allister’s injury, the Reds don’t have another option in the defensive midfield role. Moreover, the Japanese have been impressed with the opportunity that he has been given.
Although Endo wasn’t seen as the right option for Liverpool, he has proved to be a superb addition. The likes of Caicedo or Thuram would have been great, but given the circumstances, Endo is still a viable option for Klopp.
I’m a football enthusiast and an avid writer and someone who lives by the Bill Shankly quote, on a day to day basis.
