Liverpool have completed a $21m move for Japan international Wataru Endo from Stuttgart and the 30-year-old has been speaking about what he has to offer Jürgen Klopp.
Endo said his four-year deal with Liverpool is a “dream come true” after the Japan international’s $21m (£16m/€19m) move from VfB Stuttgart was confirmed earlier on friday.
The midfielder is Klopp’s third summer signing, following Alexis Mac Allister and Dominik Szboszlai from Brighton and RB Leipzig respectively. In an interview with Liverpool’s official website, Endo expressed delight about becoming the latest addition to Jürgen Klopp’s squad.
Endo said: “I’m very happy right now and I’m so excited to join a big club like Liverpool. It feels amazing, and this has always been my dream — to play in the Premier League and with one of the biggest clubs in the world. It’s a dream come true for me.
“It’s going to be the first time for me that I play at Anfield. I can’t wait to play at Anfield in front of the fans.”
Having spent three seasons in the Bundesliga with Stuttgart, Endo caught the attention of Liverpool’s sporting director Jörg Schmadtke, who has extensive links in Germany. The transfer came after failed attempts to land Moisés Caicedo and Roméo Lavia, who chose to move to Chelsea instead.
Although Endo probably won’t be available for the upcoming match against Bournemouth as he seeks to get a work permit and international clearance sorted, he is expected to come straight into Liverpool’s midfield for the trip to Newcastle United next week.
Describing his playing style, Endo said: “I play as a No.6 and I’m like a bit more [of a] defensive player.
“I think I can help this club defensively and I will have good organization in the middle. I think that’s my job. I am very excited to join this club and I look forward to seeing you at Anfield!”
