Liverpool midfielder Wataru Endo has reportedly been identified as a transfer target by as many as five clubs.
The Merseyside giants are currently sitting in a dream position in the Premier League table, leading the chasing pack by five points in Arne Slot's first season in charge.
Despite the perceived need for a new defensive midfielder, Ryan Gravenberch has been a revelation in that area of the pitch to help Slot's side look efficient and clinical in equal measure.
However, the form of the Netherlands international has had ramifications for Endo, who would have been hopeful of regular opportunities in all competitions.
Endo was provided with 43 appearances during Jurgen Klopp's final year in charge after his surprise arrival from Stuttgart.
In sharp contrast during 2024-25, Endo has been provided with just 20 minutes of action across six Premier League and Champions League matches, a further 146 minutes coming during two EFL Cup ties.
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Endo keen on Liverpool exit?
Given that the games will continue to come thick and fast for Liverpool, there is the possibility of the Japan international being used more frequently as the season progresses.
Nevertheless, as per Caught Offside, Endo is open to taking on a new challenge at the midway point of the campaign.
The report suggests that Endo will push for a transfer if his situation does not improve between now and the turn of the year.
As many as five clubs from various divisions are said to be monitoring the situation, including three teams from lower down the Premier League standings.
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Which teams could make a bid for Endo?
Fulham, who have entered the international break sitting in seventh position, are allegedly open to adding a player of Endo's qualities to their squad.
Wolverhampton Wanderers and Ipswich Town, both inside the bottom four at the present time, are also said to be keen on the 31-year-old.
Scottish Premiership leaders Celtic, who possess several Japan internationals in their squad, could also take an interest in Endo when the market reopens.
The same seemingly applies to an inconsistent AC Milan outfit who find themselves down in seventh place in the Serie A table and eight points adrift of the leaders.
Liverpool would allegedly want to generate at least €15m (£12.4m) if they were to consider the sale of Endo in January.
Darren Plant
