Wataru Endo makes surprise transfer plea over possible Liverpool replacement

Wataru Endo wants to see Liverpool sign a new defensive midfielder this summer.

The Japan international joined the Reds in a £16.2m switch from VfB Stuttgart last summer, and ended up making 43 appearances during his first season

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29 appearances came in the Premier League while he started 34 matches overall.

Arne Slot’s inherited squad is still light at defensive midfield

Consequently, Endo concedes he wants to see Liverpool strengthen in the position this summer, even though it could come at the expense of his own game-time this season.

Endo

"I don't care about those reports, but I also think it would be better to get the number six midfielder,”

“I think there is a possibility that they are viewing a number 10 player Mac Allister as a number six/anchor, but at the moment there aren't many number six players to begin with.

“I had the most opportunities to play, and so did Mac Allister. We also had Thiago Alcantara, but he had a lot of injuries and is set to leave the club at the end of this season.

“We also have a young Spanish player (Bacetic), but it's still unclear as to whether he will be able to contribute immediately.

“Considering my age, I think it might be okay for me to get the number six.

“Boy if it ultimately makes the team stronger then I'm all for it, because there will be competition and I just have to win my position again.”

“So I'm not really worried about it, and in fact I think it might be okay if I win."