This is news that could shake the Japanese archipelago. Takefusa Kubo (24, Real Sociedad), who is expected to be 'Japan's next ace', is reportedly receiving intense interest from Liverpool. There are even higher expectations since Japan national team midfielder Wataru Endo (32) is already at Liverpool.
Kubo is a talent that Japan is proud of. He is a 'close friend' of Lee Kang-in, born in the same year, and they played together at Mallorca. This has led to many saying that if Lee Kang-in is in Korea, then Kubo is in Japan. Coincidentally, Lee Kang-in is also rumored to transfer to the Premier League (PL) while Kubo has been linked with Liverpool.
The British media outlet 'Team Talk' reported on the 3rd (Korea time) that "Liverpool has selected 'La Liga star' Kubo as the successor to Mohamed Salah after 14 months of negotiations. They could seize the perfect opportunity to sign Kubo this summer, as he is also showing great interest in a PL transfer."
The media noted, "Real Sociedad is fighting to qualify for European competition next season. If they fail, they may have to sell top players such as Kubo and Martin Zubimendi." They added, "Liverpool is monitoring several wingers amid uncertainty surrounding Salah. Among them, Kubo is considered the top target."
Kubo is a multi-resource player, having come from the youth systems of Barcelona and Real Madrid, capable of playing as an attacking midfielder as well as on both wings and sometimes as a shadow striker. His quick speed, concise and effective dribbling, and threatening crosses and shots after breakthroughs are all commendable. His left-footed skill is also similar to Salah.
This season has been no different. Kubo has scored 7 goals and provided 4 assists across all competitions, continuing to lead the Sociedad attack. He also made a notable presence by assisting in the Copa del RAY second leg against Real Madrid.
Kubo is attracting the attention of several big clubs naturally. So far, Liverpool has been the team to show the most concrete interest in him. This is partly due to the possibility of bidding farewell to 'Pharaoh' Salah at the end of this season. However, Tottenham and Bayern Munich are also reportedly keeping an eye on Kubo's situation.
If Kubo moves teams this summer, his transfer fee is likely to be €60 million (approximately 87 billion won). Team Talk claimed, "Kubo has a €60 million buyout clause in his contract. Liverpool, Tottenham, and Bayern consider this to be highly cost-effective." They noted, "Liverpool has been in contact with Kubo's side for more than a year since January 2024. There has never been a break in communication."
However, news has emerged that Salah is nearing a two-year re-signing with Liverpool. This could change Kubo's future. The media explained, "Salah's future will fundamentally affect Liverpool's acquisition of Kubo. If Salah leaves, Kubo will be the top target to replace him."
Of course, even if Liverpool retains Salah, they may attempt to sign Kubo if other wingers like Luis Díaz or Diogo Jota depart. Team Talk added, "The competition for Kubo's signing is currently quite open. Much will depend on where Sociedad finishes in La Liga and how quickly Liverpool, Tottenham, and Bayern move."
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