Wataru Endo Liverpool transfer and squad status

Speculation regarding midfielder Wataru Endo’s departure from Liverpool FC has intensified during the summer transfer window. Early reports indicated that the club was prepared to accept offers for the 33-year-old to avoid him leaving on a free transfer when his contract expires. Potential suitors mentioned in media reports included Wolverhampton Wanderers, Fulham, and West Ham United.

While Endo recently returned to competitive action following ankle surgery, reports suggest he is not part of the long-term plans under new management. Despite his potential exit, Endo has received praise from fans for his professionalism.

In September 2026, manager Andoni Iraola omitted senior players Federico Chiesa and Wataru Endo from the club’s 25-man squad for the UEFA Champions League league phase. The decision was influenced by UEFA registration regulations requiring at least eight homegrown players in the List A. To comply, Liverpool included academy talents and younger players such as James McConnell, Giovanni Leoni, Conor Bradley, and Hugo Ekitike. Notably, Leoni, Bradley, and Ekitike were included despite currently being sidelined with long-term injuries, as the club anticipates their return during the league phase.

Neither Endo nor Chiesa has secured regular playing time under the new management; Chiesa has been managing a muscle injury, while Endo has remained an unused substitute in Premier League fixtures. While excluded from the Champions League, Endo remains registered for Premier League competition. Former player Jamie Carragher previously criticized the situation, suggesting the club should have considered offloading Endo due to his likely lack of playing time. Endo’s current contract runs until the summer of 2027.