Liverpool are believed to have held talks with Mainz midfielder Kaishu Sano over a summer move, with some of their Premier League rivals also in the mix.
The Reds continue to eye new midfield signings for head coach Andoni Iraola, with fresh legs needed to provide competition for the likes of Ryan Gravenberch and Alexis Mac Allister in front of the defence.
Sano has been mentioned as an option for Liverpool recently, with one report claiming that a “big offer may be coming” soon, having impressed for Mainz and Japan, starting three matches at the 2026 World Cup for the latter.
Now, FussballDaten state that the Reds have contacted the 25-year-old’s representatives over a potential move to Anfield this summer, with a bid expected to be on its way.
Premier League rivals Manchester United and Arsenal are also showing interest in Sano, who could cost as much as £51.2m, as Mainz look to receive as much money as possible for him.
Would Kaishu Sano breathe new life into Liverpool’s midfield?
Sano may not be a world-renowned player, but Liverpool don’t necessarily need that in their midfield, instead requiring a hard-working presence who will provide quality and strong competition.
The Japanese can do just that, providing all-round quality, as highlighted by a goal and assist apiece at the World Cup, and former Mainz manager Bo Henriksen has lauded him in the past, saying:
“Everyone on the team says he’s the player they least want to face in training. That’s because he’s incredibly fast, and on top of that, he’s a great footballer, has good technique, and can head the ball. He has all the abilities to become not just a good Bundesliga player, but a truly excellent international-level player.”
The likes of Adam Wharton and Alex Scott, of Crystal Palace and Bournemouth respectively, have been linked with Liverpool, but Sano would be the cheaper, more shrewd option.
Signing Wharton would arguably be the most exciting piece of midfield business, but if transfer funds are tight – spending big on another winger takes precedence – then Sano could be a good choice in his own right for the Reds this summer.