​Liverpool have surged to the head of the queue for Kaishu Sano and are prepared to shell out as much as €60 million (£51 million) to land the Mainz midfielder. The Reds have already conducted talks about a potential transfer, positioning themselves ahead of a crowded market and signaling their seriousness to secure a deal. If successful, it would set a new record sale for Mainz, underscoring the club’s openness to moving on their talents for the right price.
Competition, however, remains intense. TEAMtalk reports that Arsenal, Tottenham Hotspur and Borussia Dortmund have all been in touch with Sano’s representatives, with Newcastle United also expressing admiration for the midfielder. Earlier in the transfer window, Brentford and Brighton were among those showing interest as well. Sano’s stock has risen markedly over the past 12 months, aided by his performances as a defensive midfielder known for tireless stamina, tenacity in winning the ball, and reliability in possession. He shone throughout the Bundesliga season and then flourished for Japan at the World Cup, highlighting an international breakout that has drawn attention from Europe’s top clubs.
In the World Cup, Sano appeared in all but one of Japan’s matches, scoring in the round-of-16 defeat to Brazil and delivering an assist in the group-stage win over Tunisia. Those performances helped cement his reputation as a game-changing defensive midfielder with a high work rate and impeccable timing. At club level, his consistency is clear: he made 48 appearances across all competitions for Mainz last season, contributing two goals and five assists from a deeper role in the midfield. Mainz, meanwhile, are prepared to cash in for the right price and value him at close to €60m, insisting that they will hold firm against any expectations of discounting. Sano joined Mainz from Kashima Antlers in 2024 and remains under contract through 2028.
The player’s personal ambitions could be the deciding factor in the transfer chase. Sano is understood to be keen on testing himself in the Premier League, a factor that could give Liverpool a real edge in this race. Andoni Iraola is reshaping Liverpool’s midfield, with Sano seen as an excellent fit for the coach’s plans. The Reds appear to be in the strongest position to finalize a deal, yet the level of interest from other major clubs means any agreement would likely need to be completed swiftly to avoid being overtaken by rivals.
As this saga progresses, it will be worth watching whether Mainz’s price remains fixed near €60m or whether a club breaks through with an offer that tests their resolve. Liverpool’s strategy, the player’s preference for England, and the speed at which talks can move will all play pivotal roles in determining if Sano ends up in a red shirt next season.