Liverpool are in contention to bring 1. FSV Mainz 05’s Kaishū Sano to the Premier League this summer.
The Japan international moved to Europe for the first time when Mainz signed him from Kashima Antlers in July 2024.
He’s been a regular for the Bundesliga side, playing 84 matches, of which 48 were from last season.
On May 19th, Sport Witness covered claims from Germany of Brighton & Hove Albion and Brentford interest in Sano, valued at €50m. The German club were then on the verge of signing Eric Martel, the defensive midfielder’s replacement.
Update on Liverpool from Japan
Nikkan Sports cover the latest on the Reds’ interest in Kaishū Sano.
He played three matches at the World Cup, where his national team were eliminated by Brazil.
The 25-year-old contributed an assist in the 4-0 win over Tunisia and scored in Japan’s 2-1 loss to Brazil. His performances for club and country have caught the attention of other clubs, including Liverpool.
There’s a belief in Japan that his physicality, along with other technical qualities, would suit the Premier League. He’s already attracting interest from Andoni Iraola’s side, who could make further advances to take him away from Mainz.
Nikkan Sports claims the Anfield club may table a ‘big offer’, without mentioning a fee or the German club’s request. An earlier claim from Germany stated the Bundesliga side value him at €50m.
Sano good option for Liverpool
Liverpool target Kaishū Sano
Liverpool transfer target Kaishū Sano
Kaishū Sano can meet his compatriot Wataru Endō if he were to join the Merseyside club.
Andoni Iraola now has Endo, Stefan Bajcetic and Ryan Gravenberch as his three defensive midfielders.
The former two have struggled with injuries, leaving the Dutchman as the only recognised option. Sano’s arrival would provide Gravenberch cover and competition.
Beside Liverpool, Arsenal, Manchester United and Borussia Dortmund are monitoring him. The Mainz player has two years left on his contract and Transfermarkt value him at €40m.