Liverpool have officially announced the signing of Japanese midfielder Wataru Endo from Bundesliga club VfB Stuttgart.
The deal is worth £16.2 million and is subject to the player obtaining a work permit and international clearance.
The 30-year-old has pledged his allegiance to Anfield for the next four years.
This signing marks Liverpool’s determined effort to fortify their midfield ranks following near-miss attempts to sign Moises Caiceido and Romeo Lavia.
Caicedo and Lavia slipped through their grasp and into the arms of rivals Chelsea.
Having captained both Stuttgart and Japan, Endo’s leadership is a worthwhile additional skill, along with his ability to recover the ball from opponents.
Endo combines these characteristics with his deft ball distribution, making him a well-rounded player.
He arrives on Merseyside with a glowing pedigree after 50 international caps and a commendable record in Stuttgart’s midfield over the past three seasons.
Endo’s arrival is a critical piece in Liverpool’s midfield puzzle, especially in the wake of the departures of captain Jordan Henderson and Fabinho to Saudi Arabia.
He told Liverpool’s official website: “I’m very happy right now, and I’m so excited to join a big club in Liverpool.
“It feels amazing, and this is my dream. It’s always [been] a dream to play [in the] Premier League and with one of the biggest clubs in the world. It’s a dream come true for me.”.
Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp added: “I’m really happy. Wataru is a really good player.
“I know in this world of football how it goes and stuff like this, but have a look, have a look because he’s a really good player.
