Journalist: Liverpool target exciting new winger after missing out on top midfield pick | OneFootball

Liverpool’s New Target: Takefusa Kubo Could Be Key to Future Success

In a summer transfer window that has seen Liverpool adapt their strategy, James Holland from TeamTalk reports on an exciting new potential target. The Merseyside club has had to pivot their focus after being thwarted in their attempts to sign Real Sociedad’s Martin Zubimendi. Now, the Reds are eyeing up his team-mate, the electric winger Takefusa Kubo.

With Liverpool boss Arne Slot and sporting director Richard Hughes directing transfer efforts, Kubo has been identified as the ideal successor to Mohamed Salah on the right flank. The Japanese international fits the bill with his playing style, but there are many factors to consider before a deal can be made. Here’s a breakdown of what this potential move could mean for Liverpool.

Kubo as Salah’s Successor?

After facing the disappointment of missing out on Zubimendi, Liverpool’s scouting network appears to have found a silver lining with Kubo. The Real Sociedad winger has many qualities that mirror Salah’s, particularly his ability to cut inside from the right wing onto his stronger left foot. With Liverpool’s pressing game under Slot and Kubo’s work ethic, this could be a match made in heaven.

At just 23 years of age, Kubo has room for growth, and under Slot’s guidance, he could blossom into a top talent. However, as TeamTalk highlights, Kubo isn’t quite the prolific goal scorer Salah is—at least not yet. He could still be moulded into a significant attacking threat, with time on his side to develop the consistency required at a top Premier League club like Liverpool.

Slot himself has praised Kubo for his “great work ethic in the press” and his ability to assist his teammates. These are qualities that Liverpool’s tactical system values immensely, as they look to blend attacking dynamism with defensive discipline. Liverpool fans will be hoping that the young winger can become the long-term heir to Salah’s throne.

Why Liverpool Chose Kubo Over Zubimendi

Liverpool’s pursuit of Zubimendi was well-documented, with the Spanish midfielder being targeted as a priority signing this summer. However, Sociedad managed to retain their star midfielder, leaving Liverpool to search for alternative options. This could be viewed as a blessing in disguise, with Kubo emerging as the more attainable target, especially with a release clause of €60million (£51.1m), the same as Zubimendi’s.

Hughes and Slot have “tried everything” to land Zubimendi, but ultimately it was not meant to be. Liverpool, however, have wasted no time in shifting gears. According to the report, the Premier League giants are “no longer looking for a new No 6” but are keen to reinforce other areas, namely their attack.

With Liverpool looking to strengthen their squad in the face of competition from Manchester City and others, adding a dynamic winger like Kubo could pay dividends. His versatility and attacking threat could offer Slot more tactical flexibility and provide Liverpool with an option off the bench or as a future starter.

Photo: IMAGO

Takefusa Kubo: The Potential Liverpool Star

Kubo has had a fascinating journey so far, rising through the ranks of La Liga and now on the cusp of potentially joining one of the biggest clubs in the world. While he may not yet have the stature of Salah, his potential is clear. The release clause of £51.1m may seem steep, but in today’s market, Liverpool may see it as a gamble worth taking, particularly with Kubo’s youth and room for development.

Interestingly, Liverpool’s new Japanese midfielder, Wataru Endo, has already shown excitement at the possibility of Kubo joining him at Anfield. When asked about which of his compatriots he would like to see at Liverpool, Endo replied enthusiastically, making it clear that Kubo would be a fantastic addition to the squad. This endorsement from a current Liverpool player could be a sign of the chemistry the squad would benefit from if Kubo were to arrive.

What Does This Mean for Liverpool’s Season?

As Liverpool continue to rebuild their squad under Slot, the potential arrival of Kubo signals a forward-thinking approach from the club. The Premier League is an unforgiving competition, and any team with title aspirations must be relentless in their pursuit of new talent. Kubo’s addition could offer Liverpool the edge in matches where fresh legs and creative spark are required.

Moreover, Liverpool have been linked to several defensive reinforcements, but focusing on the attacking end with Kubo could be just as vital. With the attacking options Liverpool already have, adding someone of Kubo’s profile ensures the team remains a threat for years to come, even when the inevitable day arrives that Salah steps aside.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

For Liverpool fans, the potential signing of Takefusa Kubo offers a mix of intrigue and optimism. Kubo’s flair, work ethic, and versatility are all qualities that align perfectly with Liverpool’s playing philosophy. The young winger could not only serve as Salah’s apprentice but also offer a creative spark in the short term.

An expectant Liverpool supporter would likely see this move as part of a broader, long-term strategy. Kubo is a player who could develop under the guidance of seasoned professionals and gradually grow into a crucial figure for the club. Although €60million (£51.1m) might seem like a hefty sum for a player yet to fully establish himself at the elite level, Liverpool’s track record with similar acquisitions should provide comfort. The likes of Salah, Mane, and Firmino all arrived at Anfield without being global stars but flourished in Liverpool’s system.

The prospect of having Kubo learn from Salah and others in the squad, combined with the endorsement of compatriot Wataru Endo, adds another exciting dimension to this potential transfer. While some fans may have initially hoped for a marquee signing like Zubimendi, Kubo’s acquisition could very well turn out to be a shrewd investment that benefits Liverpool in both the present and future.