Celtic target £16m Liverpool ‘machine’ with ‘sensational attitude’ – report
Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers is reportedly eyeing a summer move for Liverpool midfielder Wataru Endo, as the Scottish Premiership champions prepare to reinforce their midfield. The Japan international has become a potential transfer target, with reports suggesting Celtic are among several clubs monitoring the situation ahead of the upcoming transfer window.
Endo, 32, joined Liverpool in the summer of 2023 from Bundesliga side VfB Stuttgart in a £16.2 million deal. The experienced midfielder was signed as part of a significant midfield overhaul at Anfield following the departures of Jordan Henderson and Fabinho to Saudi Arabia. Jurgen Klopp, Liverpool’s manager at the time, praised Endo upon his arrival, calling him a “machine on the pitch” with a “sensational attitude.”
Despite Klopp’s endorsement and Endo’s promising start, his role at Liverpool has since diminished. Under new head coach Arne Slot, the Japanese star has found first-team opportunities limited. While Alexis Mac Allister and Dominik Szoboszlai, two of Liverpool’s other major midfield signings in the same window, have established themselves as regular starters, Endo has largely been a squad player this season.
The midfielder has failed to start a single Premier League match in the current campaign and has only logged 140 minutes in the UEFA Champions League before Liverpool’s elimination. This marks a stark contrast to last season, where he started 20 Premier League games under Klopp and played a key role during a transitional period for the club.
With three years still remaining on his contract, which runs until the summer of 2027, Liverpool are not under immediate pressure to sell. However, given his limited involvement and the club’s continued focus on developing a younger core, Endo could be allowed to leave at the end of the season if a suitable offer comes in.
Celtic, under Rodgers, are believed to be seeking an experienced and reliable central midfielder who can bring both leadership and tactical discipline to their squad. Endo’s style—characterized by his strong positional sense, high work rate, and ability to break up play—fits the profile of what Rodgers is looking for. Moreover, his professionalism and international pedigree make him an attractive option.
In addition to Celtic, four other unnamed clubs are also reportedly interested in signing Endo, suggesting that Liverpool could receive multiple offers for the veteran midfielder. While a move to Scotland may offer less financial incentive compared to other European leagues, the opportunity for regular first-team football and the chance to play in European competitions could appeal to Endo, especially as he looks to maintain his place in Japan’s national team ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Celtic have made a habit of smart acquisitions in recent windows, blending domestic talent with international experience. Adding a player of Endo’s caliber and versatility would be a statement move as the club continues to dominate domestically and build toward more sustained success in Europe.
Ultimately, much will depend on Liverpool’s transfer strategy this summer. If the Reds secure additional reinforcements in midfield or promote talent from their youth ranks, Endo could become surplus to requirements. In that scenario, Celtic would be well-positioned to make a formal approach.
As the summer window approaches, the link between Celtic and Wataru Endo is one to watch. With Brendan Rodgers keen to bolster his squad and Endo seeking more consistent minutes, a move to Glasgow could prove beneficial for both player and club.
