Liverpool Reject Marseille Bid for Wataru Endo Amid Transfer Speculations

According to transfer specialist Fabrizio Romano, Liverpool turned down a €14 million (£11.8 million) bid from Marseille for midfielder Wataru Endo earlier this summer. The new Marseille manager, Roberto De Zerbi, is keen on signing Endo, but Liverpool rejected the initial offer.

Liverpool has been relatively quiet in the transfer market this summer, being the only top-six Premier League team not to make a new signing. Following the departure of manager Jurgen Klopp, Arne Slot was appointed to lead the team and restore their title contention hopes.

Despite finishing third in the league last season, Liverpool's performance faltered in the final months. Many anticipated an active transfer window to support the new manager, but the club has primarily seen departures, including Thiago Alcantara, Joel Matip, and Adrian, whose contracts expired.

Liverpool remains determined to keep Endo, who joined the club last summer following the exits of Jordan Henderson and Fabinho. The Japanese international featured in 44 games last season, scoring three goals. Despite his contributions, at 31, Endo is not seen as a long-term solution for Liverpool’s midfield issues.

De Zerbi, focusing on Premier League players to strengthen Marseille, has already secured Mason Greenwood from Manchester United and Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg from Tottenham. The French club is also eyeing Arsenal's Eddie Nketiah.

Given their shift in focus, it seems unlikely that Marseille will return for Endo. Liverpool may still look to sign a new midfielder this summer, potentially pushing Endo down the pecking order.

Liverpool's midfield struggled last season, often leaving their defense exposed. Strengthening this area remains a priority for the Reds as they prepare for the upcoming season under Arne Slot’s leadership.