‘Japan captain’ midfielder Wataru Endo, 30, has left German Bundesliga side Stuttgart to join English Premier League (EPL) side Liverpool.
The Reds announced Endo’s arrival on the club’s official website on Aug. 18. Liverpool did not disclose the details of the contract, but according to British media outlet The Guardian, the transfer fee is around 19 million euros ($27.7 billion) and the contract is for four years.
Endo is Liverpool’s third signing of the summer, following midfielders Alexis Sanchez and Dominik Soboslaj.
“I’m very happy right now,” Endo, who has been given the number three shirt, told Liverpool: “I’m excited to join a big club. It feels amazing. It’s always been a dream of mine to play for the biggest club in the Premier League and it’s come true.”
After playing for Shonan Belmare, Urawa Reds (Japan) and Belgian side Sint-Tridien, he spent a season on loan at Stuttgart in 2019. He later made the move permanent, scoring 15 goals in 133 appearances over four seasons.
Endo has also been capped by Japan, scoring two goals in 50 appearances. He played four matches at the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, helping Japan reach the round of 16. He was named captain of the Japanese national team in June.
“I’m more of a defensive midfielder,” Endo said, “and I hope to see the fans at Anfield soon.” 먹튀검증
