Brendan Rodgers Eyes Wataru Endo for Celtic’s Midfield Reinforcement

Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers is reportedly keen on raiding his former club Liverpool for midfielder Wataru Endo this summer. The Japanese international, who joined Liverpool in the summer of 2023 from VfB Stuttgart for £16.2 million, has struggled to secure regular playing time at Anfield. Now, it seems Celtic could be preparing to make a move for the 32-year-old in the upcoming transfer window, with several other clubs also expressing interest in the midfielder.

Endo’s arrival at Liverpool was part of a significant midfield overhaul, with the club bringing in players like Alexis Mac Allister and Dominik Szoboszlai to replace departing stars such as Jordan Henderson and Fabinho. Despite his strong reputation and initial praise from Liverpool’s then-manager Jürgen Klopp—who described him as “a really good player” with a “sensational attitude”—Endo has found himself on the fringes of the first-team squad this season. While Mac Allister and Szoboszlai have established themselves as regulars in Liverpool’s starting XI, Endo has struggled to make an impact, failing to start a single Premier League match this season.

With his limited involvement, having played only 140 minutes in the Champions League, there are growing suggestions that Endo may seek a move away from Liverpool in search of more regular first-team football. Despite being under contract with the Reds until 2027, it is believed that the club may be open to letting him leave at the end of this season.

According to journalist Ekrem Konur, Celtic are closely monitoring the situation and are considering a move for Endo in the summer. Brendan Rodgers is keen to bolster his midfield options and sees Endo as a potential asset to his squad. The Japanese star’s defensive abilities, leadership qualities, and experience in top-flight football would make him a valuable addition to Celtic’s setup, which is currently atop the Scottish Premiership, 13 points ahead of their Old Firm rivals Rangers.

Celtic’s successful season, which has seen them lift the Scottish League Cup and reach the semi-finals of the Scottish Cup, could be further strengthened by Endo’s arrival. However, Celtic will face competition for his signature, as several other clubs are reportedly interested in securing the services of the experienced midfielder.

As the summer transfer window approaches, it will be interesting to see whether Wataru Endo makes the move to Celtic Park, reuniting with Rodgers, or if other suitors manage to lure him away from Liverpool.