Liverpool ‘Pull Out of the Race’ to Sign £50m La Liga Forward – Report | OneFootball

Liverpool Cool Interest in Takefusa Kubo as Transfer Priorities Shift

Liverpool’s rumoured interest in Real Sociedad winger Takefusa Kubo has cooled, according to a recent report from Fichajes. The Reds had reportedly held initial contact over a potential move for the Japanese international, but have now pulled out of the race. The reason? Performance, value for money, and squad fit.

This decision reflects a more calculated and strategic approach under new manager Arne Slot, who recently delivered the Premier League title in his debut season at Anfield. As Liverpool move into a new era post-Jurgen Klopp, it’s clear that measured decisions are being prioritised over marquee names.

Kubo’s Numbers Don’t Stack Up

Kubo’s 2024/25 campaign has been underwhelming by the standards expected of a £50million player. As Fichajes rightly point out, he “finished with just seven goals and two assists in all competitions for Sociedad”. These are modest returns for a player operating in a creative and attacking role.

Photo IMAGO

While Kubo is undoubtedly talented and still only 23, the numbers raise eyebrows. In comparison, Liverpool’s current options – particularly on the right where Kubo tends to operate – are far more prolific. As the Fichajes report notes, “he mostly plays similarly to Mohamed Salah as a left-footed player starting on the right-hand side”.

That overlap presents a clear redundancy. With Salah still a key figure, and other dynamic attackers like Luis Diaz, Diogo Jota, and Cody Gakpo in the squad, it’s hard to envision where Kubo would slot in.

Positional Fit a Major Barrier

Liverpool’s frontline already features several versatile wingers and forwards. The idea of adding another wide player, especially one unlikely to dislodge Salah, feels counterintuitive. The Fichajes report makes a key observation: “it’s not clear Kubo would be a regular in this LFC side anyway”.

This lack of a clear starting role weakens the case for such a heavy financial outlay. Furthermore, the Reds will need to plan for life without Trent Alexander-Arnold, who is reportedly leaving at the end of his contract. Strengthening at right-back, or even in central midfield, may be more pressing than adding a backup winger.

Liverpool’s Summer Window Should Address Bigger Needs

Fichajes rightly highlight the pressing concern facing Liverpool: the striker position. With Darwin Nunez still not fulfilling his potential, the Reds may need to prioritise finding a true number nine.

“The Uruguay international is a clear weak link in Slot’s squad,” the report states, underlining the need for a major rethink up front. While Liverpool’s midfield was rebuilt last summer and has shown promise, question marks remain in both attack and defence.

Photo: IMAGO

With Andrew Robertson approaching the twilight of his career and Alexander-Arnold set to exit, full-back reinforcements are also crucial.

Price Tag Does Not Justify the Gamble

There’s also the issue of Kubo’s valuation. At €60 million, this is not a speculative buy, it’s a statement of intent. For that level of investment, Liverpool would expect a starter, or at least someone with immediate impact potential.

Unfortunately, Kubo’s current level does not inspire that kind of confidence. As Fichajes bluntly put it, “he doesn’t look like good value for money”.

With other areas of the squad demanding attention, spending that much on a player who may not break into the first XI would be a questionable move at best.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

From a Liverpool fan’s perspective, this report makes perfect sense. Kubo is technically gifted and has shown glimpses of brilliance at Real Sociedad, but his numbers don’t scream “Premier League-ready”. Slot’s system depends heavily on high-pressing, high-efficiency players, and Kubo’s form this season doesn’t indicate he’s ready for that level.

Moreover, with Salah still operating at a world-class level, bringing in a similar profile – particularly one with lower productivity – feels redundant. Fans would much rather see resources focused on areas that genuinely need attention.

Replacing Nunez is arguably the top priority. While he’s had moments of promise, inconsistency has defined his time at Anfield. A clinical finisher who complements Liverpool’s wide attackers is crucial if the club are to build on this season’s title win.

Equally, sorting out the full-back situation is vital. With Trent leaving and Robertson ageing, the flanks could become a liability if not addressed. Spending €60 million on a backup winger in this context feels out of touch.

Kubo may be worth revisiting in the future, particularly if his numbers improve. But for now, Arne Slot and Liverpool are making the right call. Smart recruitment, not romantic moves, should define the club’s new era.