Liverpool rejected €14m bid for midfielder, talks collapsed weeks ago after initial approach: Fabrizio Romano
Liverpool reportedly rejected a €14m bid from Marseille for their midfielder, Wataru Endo, this summer. This is as per reporter James Pearce, who claims that the French side approached the Reds before signing Ismael Kone and Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg (via Fabrizio Romano).
Of course, with the club now having tied down both central midfielders, it seems unlikely that they will push for the Japan international. Claiming that Marseille are now looking at signings for other positions, transfer expert Romano wrote on his X account (formerly Twitter):
"Liverpool rejected approach from Olympique Marseille for Endo before they signed Ismael Kone and Pierre Hojbjerg."
"Talks around €14m as @JamesPearceLFC reports- but already collapsed weeks ago. Marseille are focused on other signings and other positions."
Endo only arrived at Anfield in the summer of 2023 for a reported fee of £16.2 million but has become a useful component in the Liverpool midfield. Operating in the number six position, the 31-year-old featured 29 times in the Premier League last season, bagging a goal and no assists.
With the Reds wishing to operate Alexis Mac Allister in a slightly more advanced role, Endo could still have a part to play in the coming campaign. He's still got three years left on his contract on Merseyside, and it seems that Arne Slot and Co. value him at a higher price than which he was bought for.
Without other out-and-out defensive midfield options, Endo doesn't have to worry about competition at Liverpool.
Liverpool dealt blow as midfielder wishes to join Manchester United instead of arriving at Anfield - Reports
Liverpool and Manchester United have both reportedly shown an interest in signing France international Adrien Rabitot this summer. This is according to TuttoJuve, who also believe that the 29-year-old prefers a move to Old Trafford over Anfield (via The Boot Room).
Rabiot is a cheap option this summer, with the player now a free agent following his contract's expiry at Juventus. He's an experienced player who can cover multiple positions, including the box-to-box midfield and the number-six roles.
A player like Rabiot is certainly someone that Arne Slot could do with, given the limited options in the defensive midfield area. During his stay in Turin, the Frenchman made 212 appearances across competitions, bagging 22 goals and 15 assists.
With Manchester United not offering Champions League football this year, a move to Merseyside may be more tempting for the Frenchman.