Wataru Endo believes Liverpool would benefit from adding a defensive midfielder, although the Japan captain has cautioned that he will compete for his position.
As Liverpool approaches the transfer window, the No. 6 role is widely regarded as a key area for reinforcement.
However, it remains to be seen if the club will bolster Arne Slot's midfield foundation or persist with current players like Endo, Alexis Mac Allister, and Stefan Bajcetic.
Current signs suggest that Slot may opt to retain his group of No. 6s, but since he has not yet worked with the new squad members, the situation is still uncertain.
Endo, when questioned by Abema Sports Time in Japan, expressed openness to the idea of a new defensive midfielder joining Anfield.
"I'm not concerned about those reports, but I do believe that acquiring a No. 6 midfielder would be advantageous," he commented, as reported by MSN.
"I believe there's a chance they see Mac Allister as a potential No. 6, though currently, the options for that position are limited.
I've had numerous chances to play, as has Mac Allister. Thiago Alcantara was another option, but due to his frequent injuries and impending departure from the club, his contributions have been limited.
Stefan Bajcetic is also in the mix, yet his immediate impact remains uncertain.
Given that I'm 31, it seems reasonable that I could take on the No. 6 role.
However, if assigning the No. 6 to another player strengthens the team, I fully support it. It means there will be competition, and I'll have to earn my spot once more.
I'm not concerned about this; in fact, I believe it would be great if I were to secure the position!"
Endo's arrival last summer was unexpected, but he quickly became a regular, playing 43 times in his first season at Anfield, making him one of Jurgen Klopp's most frequently selected players.
However, considering his age and Liverpool's previous attempts to secure younger players like Moises Caicedo and Romeo Lavia, Endo might not be viewed as a long-term starting option.
The decision will hinge on the available choices, with David Lynch of This Is Anfield suggesting that a significant improvement over Endo would be required for Liverpool to consider a new acquisition.
Last summer, The Athletic reported that Boubacar Kamara was also a top target, alongside Caicedo and Lavia."
