Reports suggest that Liverpool manager Arne Slot has instructed sporting director Richard Hughes to offload one player during the upcoming January transfer window. According to Football Insider, Slot is open to sanctioning the permanent sale of Wataru Endo, with the aim of raising funds to acquire a younger defensive midfielder as an alternative to Ryan Gravenberch.
Despite Gravenberch’s impressive start to the season, Slot remains eager to bolster the squad with youthful talent in the defensive midfield position. Endo, who joined Liverpool in the summer, has seen limited game time, featuring for only 84 minutes in the Reds’ first nine matches of the season. Most of his time on the pitch came in a rotated squad during the Carabao Cup victory over West Ham (as noted by Transfermarkt).
It appears that Slot doesn’t fully trust the 31-year-old Japanese international to fulfill the demands of the number 6 role in his system. As a result, Liverpool’s reported scouting of Atalanta’s Ederson during their Champions League win over Shakhtar Donetsk may not be coincidental, indicating the club’s intent to find a younger option in that position.
However, Liverpool should exercise caution before deciding to sell Endo, particularly if Hughes cannot guarantee the recruitment of a younger defensive midfielder in January. While Endo might not be Slot’s preferred choice at the moment, his experience and ability could prove invaluable, especially as Liverpool faces a grueling fixture schedule throughout the season. The need for squad depth and reliable back-up options will be essential to maintaining the team’s competitive edge in multiple competitions.
Endo’s contributions, though limited this season, have not gone unnoticed. After he scored in Liverpool’s thrilling 4-3 victory over Fulham last December, Trent Alexander-Arnold praised the midfielder, describing him as a “real game changer” with “great technique” and an “outstanding professional” (LFCTV). This praise highlights the potential value that Endo still holds, even if he is not currently a first-choice option for Slot.
Gravenberch has rightfully secured his starting position in the squad, but injuries and suspensions are inevitable over the course of a long season. If Gravenberch were to become unavailable for an extended period, Liverpool might then realize the importance of keeping Endo, who could provide vital cover and stability in the midfield.
While Slot is focused on building a younger, more dynamic squad, Liverpool must carefully weigh the risks and benefits of letting Endo go in January. His experience and professionalism could still play a key role in helping the team navigate a demanding season, especially if injuries or other challenges arise.
