Liverpool are among four major European clubs showing serious interest in signing Kaishu Sano, the Mainz defensive midfielder whose standout performance for Japan at the World Cup has thrust him into the spotlight.
The 25-year-old produced a moment of genuine quality on Monday, stunning Brazil with a 29th-minute opener in the last-32 clash at Houston Stadium. Sano pounced on a loose pass from Danilo, surged past Casemiro with impressive composure, and rifled a low strike into the far bottom corner. It was his first senior international goal and the perfect illustration of his rapid development.
Though Japan were ultimately eliminated — Casemiro equalised in the second half before Gabriel Martinelli struck a dramatic injury-time winner — Sano’s display has significantly boosted his stock. What was once a steady Bundesliga career has now exploded onto the global stage.
According to German outlet Bulinews, citing Japan’s Nikkan Sports, Liverpool are showing strong interest in a potential summer deal. They are not alone. Manchester United, Arsenal and Borussia Dortmund are also monitoring the situation closely.
Sano’s contract with Mainz runs for another two years, giving the Bundesliga club a strong negotiating position. Reports from Germany in March indicated that Mainz would demand between €50-60million (£43-52m) to part ways with their midfield anchor.
While Sano has developed into an impressive, hard-working midfielder — boasting two goals and five assists in recent seasons — some Liverpool supporters may question whether he represents the ideal profile. Many fans would prefer a signing with proven Premier League experience or time at a higher-profile club.
Liverpool’s Midfield Priorities
The Reds are determined to strengthen their central midfield this summer, but their most urgent business remains finding a long-term replacement for Mohamed Salah on the right wing. Liverpool have already missed out on Yan Diomande, while Paris Saint-Germain have slapped a staggering £116m price tag on Bradley Barcola.
Other midfield options reportedly on Liverpool’s radar include Crystal Palace’s Adam Wharton, Bournemouth’s Alex Scott, and Real Madrid’s Eduardo Camavinga. The Spanish press have suggested Camavinga wishes to stay and fight for his place under Jose Mourinho, but sources close to the situation indicate the Frenchman has already approved a summer departure. Interestingly, his reported valuation also sits in the same €50-60m bracket as Sano.
Sano’s journey from Japan’s J2 League to starring against Brazil in the World Cup knockout stages represents a remarkable rise. His tenacity, technical ability under pressure, and eye for a goal — as evidenced against one of the world’s strongest nations — suggest a player with the mentality to thrive at Anfield.
Whether Liverpool are prepared to meet Mainz’s significant asking price and commit to a player still building his reputation at the highest level remains to be seen. What is clear, however, is that Kaishu Sano has announced himself on the biggest stage — and Arne Slot’s side are taking notice.
