Liverpool have been forced to rethink some of their transfer plans following Yan Diomande’s rejection in recent weeks, but have received a major boost to sign another Bundesliga star.
The main priority at Anfield is a Mohamed Salah replacement this summer. It’s why Diamonde has been their top target and why Bradley Barcola has been in their crosshairs in recent weeks.
Once that problem is solved, however, the focus is likely to shift towards a midfielder and that’s when Kaishu Sano could be key. Liverpool have reportedly set their sights on the 25-year-old and received a public boost from Mainz.
Football FanCast’s Verdict | |
|---|---|
Credibility | It doesn’t get much more credible than from the Mainz chief himself and Liverpool’s pursuit of Sano certainly makes sense. As talented as Ryan Gravenberch is, he’s not a traditional No.6. The Japan international would provide exactly that alongside the Dutchman. |
Finances | Whilst absurd figures have been flying around the midfield market, Sano represents a modern-day bargain at €60m (£51m) and the Reds could take full advantage. |
Insight | In terms of suiting Andoni Iraola, Sano is an ideal option. The 25-year-old has received countless praise in Germany, including from former Mainz head coach Bo Henriksen, who said: “Kaishu is a machine. He’s unbelievable. He’s quick and wins headers because of his incredible leap.” |
Impact | Liverpool’s pursuit of the Mainz man could rule out a move for a Premier League option like Alex Scott or Adam Wharton, which may then open the door for Manchester United to swoop in instead. When it comes to price, however, the Reds would be the real winners. |
There’s still a lot of work to be done for any deal to take place, but the verdict from Mainz is undoubtedly a starting point for all parties.
Mainz chief publicly responds to Sano interest
Addressing his midfielder’s future, Mainz sporting director Niko Bungert admitted that he “will consider” offers to sell Sano this summer in a major boost for Liverpool.
“If a club comes along with an offer, we’ll consider it.” – Bungert
It’s good news for Liverpool, who have set their sights on the Mainz star, who is valued at around €60m (£51m) in Germany – far cheaper than Premier League options.
“Unbelievable” Sano would be perfect alongside Gravenberch
The biggest criticism that could be aimed at Liverpool last season was their lack of energy in midfield. It was entirely out of character and eventually cost Arne Slot his job.
That’s the first thing that Andoni Iraola must change and could change with the addition of Sano. Compared to the likes of Alex Mac Allister, the Mainz star is far more tenacious and rugged without necessarily losing crucial competence in possession.
25/26 | Sano | Mac Allister |
|---|---|---|
Minutes | 3,059 | 2,662 |
Recoveries P90 | 5.97 | 3,979 |
Duel success | 62.7% | 45.2% |
Pass accuracy | 80.1% | 86.6% |
The numbers are damning for Mac Allister, who endured an alarmingly poor duel success last season compared to someone like Sano. Under Iraola, there will only be one winner if the latter arrives.
