Liverpool is reportedly on the brink of signing Japanese winger Takefusa Kubo from Real Sociedad, according to various sources in Japan. Sports Nippon has suggested that negotiations are in the final stages for a deal valued at €60 million (£50.6m). The 23-year-old’s agent is said to have already traveled to England to finalize talks.
Takefusa Kubo’s Career Trajectory
Early Beginnings
Takefusa Kubo, often dubbed the “Japanese Messi” due to his exceptional technique and potential, has had an intriguing career trajectory. Born on June 4, 2001, Kubo started his football journey at a young age, playing for FC Persimmon and later for Kawasaki Frontale’s junior youth team. His talent was evident early on, as he was invited to join Barcelona’s famed La Masia academy at the age of 10. Despite a promising start in Spain, Kubo had to return to Japan due to FIFA’s international transfer policy for under-18 players.
Rise to Prominence
Kubo quickly made a name for himself in Japan, becoming the youngest player to score in the J.League at just 15 years and ten months. His performances caught the attention of European clubs, and he eventually signed with Real Madrid in 2019. Although he primarily played for Real Madrid B, he also experienced several loan spells at clubs like Mallorca, Villarreal, and Getafe, before joining Real Sociedad on a permanent deal in 2022 for €6.5 million.
Impact at Real Sociedad
At Real Sociedad, Kubo has continued to impress, particularly in the 2022-2023 La Liga season where he scored nine goals and provided four assists in 35 appearances. His versatility is one of his key attributes; he is capable of playing on either wing or in central attacking roles, which makes him an attractive option for Liverpool. The Japanese international has also earned accolades such as the La Liga Player of the Month for September 2023 and has been recognized in the UEFA La Liga Revelation Team of the Year for the 2019-2020 season.
Liverpool’s Interest in Kubo
Strategic Acquisition
Liverpool’s new head coach, Arne Slot, is reportedly keen on bolstering his attacking options ahead of his debut Premier League season. The potential acquisition of Kubo fits this strategy, as the club seeks to enhance their depth and versatility in the final third. Kubo’s ability to operate across multiple attacking positions would provide Liverpool with valuable flexibility.
Transfer Rumors
Despite the growing speculation, the transfer remains a rumor at this stage. Liverpool has yet to make any official moves in the transfer market, and it is unclear if they will follow through with the reported interest in Kubo. The Japanese newspaper Sponichi Annex had earlier claimed that Liverpool was preparing an offer of around $71m (£55m/€65m) and was willing to provide a substantial salary package to secure the player’s services.
Notable Praise and Future Prospects
Notably, Kubo has received high praise from football luminaries such as Zinedine Zidane, further boosting his profile. Zidane, a former Real Madrid coach and one of the sport’s greatest players, has spoken highly of Kubo’s abilities and potential.
As the transfer window progresses, it will be interesting to see if Liverpool can finalize the deal or if they will explore other options in the market. For now, fans and pundits alike will watch closely to see if the “Japanese Messi” will be making his way to Anfield.
Liverpool Squad and Upcoming Matches
Liverpool’s squad for the upcoming season includes key players such as Alisson Becker, Virgil van Dijk, Mohamed Salah, and new signings like Wataru Endo and Dominik Szoboszlai. The team is set to kick off their Premier League campaign against Ipswich on August 17, followed by matches against Brentford, Manchester United, and Nottingham Forest.
Real Sociedad and Kubo’s Impact
Real Sociedad, Kubo’s current club, also boasts a strong squad including players like Robin Le Normand, Mikel Merino, and Mikel Oyarzabal. The team is set to start their La Liga season against Rayo Vallecano on August 18. Kubo’s departure, if it materializes, would be a significant loss for Real Sociedad, given his contributions last season.
Conclusion
While the rumors of Kubo’s potential move to Liverpool are exciting, they remain unconfirmed. As the transfer window progresses, all eyes will be on Liverpool to see if they can secure the talented winger’s signature. Until then, the football world will continue to speculate and eagerly await official announcements.
