Liverpool transfers: Wataru Endo set to be REPLACED as Reds chase 'marquee' signing

Liverpool are planning on signing a 'marquee midfield star' this summer as they look to replace Wataru Endo. 

The Japan captain was a surprise addition to Liverpool's squad last summer, making the £16m switch from Stuttgart after the Reds missed out on now Chelsea duo Moises Caicedo and Romeo Lavia.

After a slow start to life on Merseyside, Endo swiftly became a fan favourite with some excellent performances over the winter period, even if his form dipped towards the end of the season.

The 31-year-old proved great value for money and helped Liverpool be as competitive as they were last season, with his presence also allowing Alexis Mac Allister to play in a more advanced role.

However, the Reds are already making plans to sign a new defensive midfielder this summer as they look to ease the burden on Endo next season.

LIVERPOOL LOOKING FOR WATARU ENDO REPLACEMENT

According to Football Insider, Endo has only ever been viewed by Liverpool's chiefs as a temporary solution to their holding midfield issues following Fabinho's decline and subsequent exit.

Therefore, the Reds are still chasing a new No.6, with 'plans now in place to sign a marquee new midfield star' in the summer transfer window.

Reportedly, searching for a new defensive midfielder is 'chief among their plans' over the next few months, with Endo expected to play a more bit-part role at Anfield in Slot's debut campaign.

Endo has already played more for the Reds than was expected at the beginning of the campaign, donning a Liverpool shirt 43 times over the course of last season.

With Mac Allister far superior in a more advanced role and new head coach Arne Slot preferring a 4-2-3-1 system, pursuing a new defensive-minded midfielder certainly makes sense.

Liverpool do, of course, have young Stefan Bajcetic at their disposal after his long-term injury, but the club will be eager to ease pressure on the 19-year-old Spaniard.

Anfield Watch recently revealed that Joao Gomes was a target for sporting director Richard Hughes, while Atalanta duo Teun Koopmeiners and Ederson have also been touted with Merseyside moves.

Other reports have suggested that Liverpool are prioritising the search for a new central defender and winger in the summer window in what is expected to be a busy period.