Wataru Endo to play 'key' role in £55m Liverpool signing - Keith Wyness

Everton’s former chief Keith Wyness has insisted Wataru Endo will play a "key" role in a potential Liverpool deal for compatriot Takefusa Kubo.

Speaking on the new edition of Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast, the 66-year-old – who served as CEO at Goodison Park between 2004 and 2009 and now runs a football consultancy advising elite clubs – also claimed another foray into the Japanese market could hand the Reds a "big commercial bonus".

Japanese outlet Sports Nippon reported on Monday (22 July) that Liverpool are in the "final negotiations" to bring Real Sociedad winger Kubo to Anfield.

It is claimed the Reds have prepared a deal worth almost £55million for the 35-cap international.

The 23-year-old notched seven goals and five assists in 41 appearances across all competitions last season.

Endo to play 'key' role in Liverpool signing Kubo, says Wyness

Wyness claimed Endo is the "right character" to help bed Kubo in on Merseyside.

He told Football Insider‘s Insider Track podcast: “Celtic were pioneers in the Japanese market.

“It’s an exciting market. I know a lot of my friends and contacts have been visiting recently, they believe there is real talent over there.

“It’s also a strong commercial market.

“There’s a big opportunity there. Kubo could be a match-winner for Liverpool and give a big commercial bonus for the club.

“Endo could be crucial. Him being at Liverpool means that Kubo won’t be by himself, there’ll be someone there who can speak and guide him in the right direction.

“The club have player care facilities, but having someone speaking your language will be key.

“There’s no doubt they will speak if this transfer is going to happen.

“Endo is the right sort of character to that kind of role, and if this transfer goes ahead I expect it to be a success.”

In other news, Liverpool told £50million defender will be accepted.

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