Liverpool are showing strong interest in Mainz midfielder Kaishu Sano, whose stock has soared this summer.
The 25-year-old scored for Japan in their World Cup last-32 defeat to Brazil, a moment that has amplified attention from Europe’s biggest clubs.
He is far from a Liverpool exclusive, however. Japanese outlet Nikkan Sports reports that Arsenal, Manchester United and Borussia Dortmund are all tracking the midfielder too, setting up a genuinely competitive race.
Liverpool lead four-club chase for Japan’s Kaishu Sano
His goal against Brazil was the standout moment. Sano pounced on a loose Danilo pass, breezed past Casemiro and rifled low into the far corner. It gave Japan a first-half lead before Brazil recovered to win 2-1.
The strike capped a durable club season. Sano made 48 appearances in all competitions for Mainz, offering steady output and reliability in the engine room. He is comfortable both as a defensive anchor and a box-to-box midfielder.
Mainz, though, hold a strong hand. Sano is under contract until 2028, and reports in Germany suggest they will only sell for a fee in the region of €50-60m (£43-52m). The Bundesliga club are under no pressure to cash in.
The interest reflects each suitor’s needs. Liverpool are reshaping under Andoni Iraola, while United want fresh legs after Casemiro’s exit. Arsenal, meanwhile, are seeking depth behind Declan Rice and Martin Zubimendi.
Not everyone is convinced he is the priority, though. Some Liverpool observers would prefer a signing with Premier League pedigree, with Crystal Palace’s Adam Wharton and Real Madrid’s Eduardo Camavinga among the alternatives linked.
The battle for Sano is only likely to intensify as the window wears on, with Mainz’s firm stance ensuring any suitor must pay a premium to prise him away.
