Liverpool’s title-winning celebrations on Sunday were a chance for all the players to really cement themselves as part of the club.

Few teams on the planet can boast a bond between player and supporter as the Reds and it’s moments like Sunday which really help to fuse those relationships.

For someone like Wataru Endo, it can only further what has blossomed into a real mutual appreciation across the past two years.

Although he has not been the star man at Liverpool since his arrival in 2023 – and has not even started a Premier League match this season – Endo has become a cult hit with Reds supporters.

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Always willing to give his all for the cause, the Japan captain has won over Arne Slot to become a crucial member of the Liverpool squad.

But owing to his lack of playing time, there have been plenty of rumours that Endo could leave Liverpool this summer.

And as the transfer window moves into view, Slot’s plan for his No.3 has been revealed.

Photo by Andrew Powell/Liverpool FC via Getty Images

Had Slot got his wish last summer, Endo would not have even stuck around to see the start of the season, let alone the end of it.

The Liverpool head coach had seemingly not been convinced by the 32-year-old in pre-season and was willing to find a buyer at the right price.

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However, after Endo stayed he quickly went about changing Slot’s mind on what he can bring to the team.

And according to The Athletic, the Dutch coach is now planning for next season with Endo onboard.

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The midfielder still has two years left to run on his contract and despite playing just 158 Premier League minutes this season, it’s claimed that Liverpool see Endo as being a ‘valuable squad player.’

From Endo’s point of view, although playing time ahead of the 2026 World Cup is said to be a ‘consideration’ for him, the former Stuttgart man is said to be ‘happy and settled’ in Liverpool.

This will be music to the ears of many a Liverpool supporter.

Endo has become a real cult hero during his time with the club and it would be a shame to see him leave already.

Nevertheless, it is still very early days ahead of the transfer window.

Reports have claimed that Bundesliga clubs are interested in Endo, with the Japanese having starred in Germany across four years with Stuttgart.

If a good offer comes in and Endo is enticed, then it obviously remains a possibility that he will be sold.

Instead, it’s claimed that Stefan Bajcetic will be given the chance to prove himself in pre-season.

Meanwhile, it’s reported that Tyler Morton is expected to leave having been valued at around £20m, while Liverpool could also reluctantly allow Harvey Elliott to go if he pushes for an exit.