With international tournaments concluding, transfer activity seems set to start, and a potential move to Liverpool has brought one name into focus.
According to Japanese outlet Sponichi Annex (translated), Takefusa Kubo of Real Sociedad is likely to transfer to the prestigious English club Liverpool.
The report states that negotiations are in the final stages, with Liverpool prepared to pay €65m, which would be the biggest contract in Japanese soccer history.
Kubo, a right winger, may initially serve as an understudy for Mo Salah, given his age and time needed to adapt to the Premier League.
Kubo scored seven goals and provided five assists in 41 appearances for Real Sociedad last season, numbers that are not particularly impressive.
Throughout his career, including stints at Mallorca, Getafe, and Villarreal, Kubo has never registered high numbers.
The report also notes that Kubo has started taking English lessons, and the presence of Wataru Endo at Anfield has been a significant factor in convincing him to move.
Although Kubo may not be the most thrilling name linked to Liverpool, if Richard Hughes, Michael Edwards, and Arne Slot are excited about him, perhaps fans should be too.