SBOTOP : Liverpool Step Up Pursuit of Japan Star as Arsenal and Tottenham Join the Race

Liverpool have emerged as the frontrunners in the race to sign Japanese defensive midfielder Kaishu Sano, with the Premier League giants reportedly prepared to spend €60 million (£52 million / around Rp1.1 trillion) to bring the Mainz star to Anfield.

The Reds are determined to strengthen their midfield ahead of the new season, and Sano has quickly become one of their top priorities after an outstanding campaign in both the Bundesliga and the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

However, Liverpool are not alone. Arsenal, Tottenham Hotspur, and Borussia Dortmund are all monitoring the 25-year-old closely, setting up one of the most intriguing transfer battles of the summer.

Liverpool Ready to Break Mainz’s Transfer Record

According to reports from TEAMtalk, Liverpool have already held discussions regarding a potential move for Kaishu Sano.

The Merseyside club are reportedly willing to submit an offer worth up to €60 million, a fee that would become the highest transfer sale in Mainz’s history.

Liverpool’s recruitment team has been impressed by Sano’s consistency, defensive intelligence, and ability to control the tempo of matches.

With Arne Slot continuing to reshape his squad, the Japanese international is viewed as an ideal player to strengthen Liverpool’s midfield for both domestic and European competitions.

Although negotiations have yet to reach the final stage, Liverpool currently appear to be leading the race for the midfielder’s signature.

Arsenal, Tottenham, and Dortmund Refuse to Back Down

Liverpool may be in pole position, but the competition remains fierce.

Several major European clubs continue to track Sano’s situation, including:

1. Arsenal
2. Tottenham Hotspur
3. Borussia Dortmund

Reports suggest that representatives from all three clubs have already established contact with Sano’s camp.

Meanwhile, Premier League sides Brentford, Brighton & Hove Albion, and Newcastle United have also shown interest in recent months, although their pursuit appears less advanced than Liverpool’s.

The growing list of suitors reflects just how highly Sano is now regarded across European football.

Kaishu Sano’s Rise Has Been Remarkable

Only a few years ago, Kaishu Sano was making his name in Japan with Kashima Antlers.

His move to Mainz in 2024 proved to be a turning point in his career.

Since arriving in Germany, the defensive midfielder has developed into one of the Bundesliga’s most reliable performers.

His ability to recover possession, break up opposition attacks, and distribute the ball calmly under pressure has made him an indispensable part of Mainz’s system.

At just 25 years old, Sano is entering what many consider the prime years of his career.

Outstanding World Cup Performance Raised His Profile

Sano’s reputation reached another level during the 2026 FIFA World Cup with Japan.

The Samurai Blue midfielder featured in almost every match throughout the tournament and consistently delivered mature performances against elite opponents.

His contributions included:

1. A crucial goal against Brazil in the Round of 32.
2. An assist during Japan’s group-stage match against Tunisia.
3. Strong defensive displays throughout the tournament.
4. Excellent ball recovery and pressing ability.
5. Calm possession under intense pressure.

Despite Japan’s eventual elimination, Sano left the tournament as one of the country’s standout performers.

His World Cup displays significantly increased interest from Europe’s biggest clubs.

Why Liverpool Want Kaishu Sano

Liverpool’s interest goes beyond statistics.

The club reportedly believes Sano possesses several qualities perfectly suited to Premier League football.

Among his biggest strengths are:

1. Outstanding ball-winning ability.
2. High work rate throughout the match.
3. Tactical discipline in defensive transitions.
4. Composure when building attacks from deep.
5. Excellent positional awareness.
6. Strong physical endurance.
7. Consistency against top-level opposition.

These characteristics make him an ideal modern defensive midfielder capable of protecting the back line while also initiating attacks.

With Liverpool looking to maintain balance in midfield, Sano fits the profile of the player the club has been searching for.

Mainz Standing Firm on Their Valuation

Despite growing interest, Mainz are under no immediate pressure to sell.

Sano remains under contract until 2028, giving the Bundesliga club a strong negotiating position.

Reports indicate that Mainz have placed a valuation close to €60 million and are unwilling to lower their asking price.

The German side are open to selling only if a club meets their valuation.

Should Liverpool proceed with an official offer matching that figure, Mainz would receive the biggest transfer fee in the club’s history.

Impressive Numbers Back Up His Reputation

While defensive midfielders are rarely judged solely on goals and assists, Sano’s attacking contributions have also been notable.

During the previous season, he recorded:

1. 48 appearances across all competitions.
2. 2 goals.
3. 5 assists.
4. Numerous interceptions and recoveries.
5. Consistently high passing accuracy.

His numbers, combined with his tactical intelligence, explain why so many elite clubs now consider him one of Europe’s most promising defensive midfielders.

Premier League Dream Could Favor Liverpool

Another factor working in Liverpool’s favor is Sano’s reported desire to experience Premier League football.

England’s top flight remains the most competitive domestic league in the world, and the opportunity to play for a club with Liverpool’s history and ambitions is believed to appeal to the Japanese international.

Liverpool also offer the chance to compete regularly in the UEFA Champions League while challenging for major domestic trophies.

That combination could ultimately prove decisive if multiple clubs submit similar financial offers.

A Transfer Battle That Could Define Liverpool’s Summer

With Arsenal, Tottenham Hotspur, and Borussia Dortmund all keeping close tabs on Kaishu Sano, Liverpool cannot afford to delay their next move.

The Reds currently appear to hold the strongest position, but the transfer market can change quickly once official bids begin to arrive.

For Mainz, patience remains the strategy as they wait for the right proposal.

For Liverpool, completing this deal would represent another significant statement of intent ahead of the new campaign.

As one of Japan’s brightest football stars continues to attract attention across Europe, all eyes are now on Anfield to see whether Liverpool can win the race for Kaishu Sano before their rivals make their move.