18 August 2023 , 12:24
1191
0
New Liverpool signing Wataru Endo has claimed his much-desired No.3 shirt after his move to Anfield was confirmed.
The Japanese midfielder has completed a £20m move from German side Stuttgart and has put pen to paper on a long-term deal with the Merseysiders. He becomes Jurgen Klopp’s third signing of the summer following the prior arrivals of Dominik Szoboszlai and Alexis Mac Allister from RB Leipzig and Brighton.
Endo’s arrival also brings to an end a hugely frustrating search for a more natural defensive midfielder. The Reds were previously interested in Moises Caicedo and Romeo Lavia - only for both players to complete moves for Chelsea.
Now confirmed as a Liverpool player, Endo’s shirt number has already been announced. He claims the No.3 that was previously occupied by Brazilian midfielder Fabinho.
The shirt has remained free since the former Monaco star’s decision to quit Anfield for Saudi champions Al-Ittihad. Endo has explained why he chose to claim the number on Merseyside.
Klopp's dream Liverpool line up as last-gasp January transfers rejected
As quoted by Liverpool’s official website, he said: “Number three is my number because I played as No.3 in Stuttgart and when I was playing in Japan, also. I love this number! I cannot wait to play with this number here.”
Liverpool have announced that Wataru Endo has taken the number three shirt (Getty Images)Is Wataru Endo a good signing for Liverpool? Share your thoughts in the comments below
Liverpool supporters could potentially have their first opportunity to see Endo in action this weekend. The Reds host newly-promoted Bournemouth at Anfield on Saturday.
Speaking ahead of his possible debut, the 30-year-old said: "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 Liverpool fans.
"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 organisation in the middle. I think that's my job. I am very excited to join this club and I am looking forward to seeing you at Anfield!"
Whilst Fabinho had plenty of success with the number three on his back - winning the Premier League, Champions League and whole host of other trophies under Klopp - it hasn’t always been a standout shirt in the modern era. The likes of Christian Ziege, Abel Xavier, Paul Konchesky and Mamadou Sakho were all owners of the shirt before Fabinho.
Endo’s arrival is not expected to signal the end of Liverpool’s summer business. Boss Klopp remains keen on bolstering his defensive options before the end of the transfer window.
Rennes star Arthur Theate is reportedly an option for the Reds following his standout performances in France over the past season. Liverpool could face competition for his signature from Premier League rivals Fulham.