During the winter transfer window, Real Sociedad star Takefusa Kubo was linked with interest from Saudi Arabia and Liverpool, although he was keen to remain in Donostia-San Sebastian. Now reports in Japan claim that the Reds are willing to activate his €60m release clause.
Kubo, 23, played a starring role for Real Sociedad last season, until the Asian Cup, when he battled sub-optimal fitness in the final stretch of the season. Prior to that, he was one of the best in Spain. Sponichi Annex, as referenced by Diario AS, claim that Liverpool are in the final stages of talks for Kubo, as they discuss the Japanese star’s contract.
He would earn in the region of €15m gross (€7.5m net) on a long-term deal, with Liverpool ready to pay the €60m required to bring him in. They explain that Kubo is excited about the challenge of joining Liverpool and playing in the Premier League.
Of course, Real Madrid are interested in the deal too. They have a 50% sell-on clause for any profit made after his original €6m fee, meaning they would claim €27m from any deal, with La Real making €33m from the switch.
It will leave La Real in search of a new winger, although they could use Mikel Oyarzabal out wide, with Arsen Zakharyan also capable of being used on the flank, and Ander Barrenetxea likely to be fighting for a starting role too. Kubo finished last season with 7 goals and 4 assists in 41 appearances, but was regularly La Real’s most dangerous threat. His one-on-one ability means opposition were often compensating for him.
