Wataru Endo is one of several Liverpool players entering the final year of his contract, prompting questions about whether the Reds should cash in on the 33-year-old defensive midfielder this summer.
Midfield Concerns Prompt Transfer Speculation
Liverpool's midfield struggles last season were a major concern, rarely functioning as effectively as during their Premier League title-winning campaign the previous year. New head coach Andoni Iraola may look to tweak the engine room, but no new arrivals have been suggested yet—a situation that could change if a current senior midfielder is moved on.
Endo, a Japan international, is one of several Liverpool players now in the final 12 months of their contract. At 33, any transfer fee would likely be small, but his future at Anfield remains uncertain.
Ian Doyle: Keep Endo for Experience and Versatility
Ian Doyle argues that Endo has had a frustrating few years, barely making a Premier League start during the title win under Arne Slot and suffering two injury setbacks last season. The second came when he was impressively filling in at right-back at Sunderland in February, effectively ending his domestic season and World Cup hopes.
However, with Liverpool losing vast experience in Mohamed Salah, Andy Robertson, and Ibrahima Konate, Doyle believes the club should think twice before actively selling Endo. He is a rare commodity in the squad—a dedicated defensive midfielder—and if Liverpool don't strengthen in that area, moving him on would be foolish. Even if a new defensive midfielder is brought in, Endo can contribute with his knowledge and versatility in defensive roles.
"He isn't the future, and surely won't be offered a new deal. But if Endo wants to stay for another season, the Reds would be wise to keep him around for his nous," Doyle writes, noting how veteran players have fared in North America recently.
Richard Garnett: Endo Could Play Squad Role
Richard Garnett views Endo's case as intriguing. At 33, he is in the twilight of his career and would likely move to a lesser club if he leaves Anfield. With only a year left on his contract, the Reds have little incentive to seek a transfer fee, as any bid would be nominal compared to their summer spending.
Endo's stock in Japan is enormous simply by representing Liverpool, and he may be content to continue as a squad player under Iraola. "He is not likely to be offered a new deal, so why not see out your final 12 months with Liverpool?" Garnett asks. If he stays injury-free, he could have an increased role under the Spaniard.
Garnett emphasizes that Iraola needs a bigger squad, not a smaller one, and Endo's experience would be valuable. He could even be a vice-captain candidate. "Liverpool have a lot of young players who could benefit from the discipline of Endo," Garnett adds, noting that the only reason to let him go is if Endo himself prefers regular game time elsewhere.
Conclusion: Experience vs. Transfer Fee
Both writers agree that Endo's experience and versatility make him a valuable squad member, even if he is not part of Liverpool's long-term plans. With a thin squad and young players needing guidance, keeping Endo for his final contract year could be wiser than seeking a small transfer fee. The decision ultimately rests on whether Endo is content with a reduced role or seeks more playing time elsewhere.
