Red Bull Leipzig are orchestrating a stunning double raid on the Premier League, with a move for Liverpool's experienced midfielder Wataru Endo and a permanent deal for Chelsea outcast David Datro Fofana.
The Bundesliga powerhouses, fresh from their DFL-Supercup triumph, are proactively planning for the potential departure of key midfielder Xavi Simons. The Dutch prodigy, on loan from Paris Saint-Germain, has a clause in his contract that could see him return to his parent club, forcing Leipzig into the market for reinforcements.
Endo In The Crosshairs
Leipzig's sporting director, Rouven Schröder, has identified Liverpool's Wataru Endo as a prime target. The 31-year-old Japanese international, who joined the Merseyside club from VfB Stuttgart just last summer for £16 million, is seen as the ideal, battle-hardened presence to bolster their midfield ranks.
While Endo has become a valuable asset for new Liverpool boss Arne Slot, the allure of regular first-team football in Germany and the prospect of Champions League action could be a tempting proposition for the player.
Chelsea's Fofana On The Radar
In attack, Leipzig are keen to make David Datro Fofana's stay in Germany permanent. The Ivorian striker, who belongs to Chelsea, spent a productive second half of last season on loan at Burnley, netting four goals despite the Clarets' relegation.
His previous loan spell at Union Berlin was less successful, but Leipzig's hierarchy believes their system is perfectly suited to unlock the 21-year-old's raw potential. A permanent deal is now being seriously considered by the Red Bull outfit.
The Xavi Simons Domino Effect
These potential moves are directly linked to the future of Xavi Simons. The electrifying young attacker is currently the subject of intense interest from Chelsea, who are reportedly prepared to trigger a release clause in his PSG contract to bring him to Stamford Bridge.
Should Simons depart, it would free up significant funds and create a strategic need for Leipzig, making their pursuit of both Endo and Fofana a matter of urgency as the transfer window heats up.
