Liverpool and Tottenham monitor Bundesliga defender - Romano

Tom Weber

• Updated: 1 Jan 2024 15:33 GMT
• 3 min read

Liverpool and Tottenham are keeping a keen eye on Ko Itakura, according to Fabrizio Romano.

The Borussia Monchengladbach centre-back remains a highly-rated player despite not having the easiest of times in recent years. Injury issues and playing for an admittedly not-very-good side since arriving permanently in Germany have seen the Japan international, at times, perform below his capabilities.

The former Man City defender - who never got on the pitch for the Cityzens - initially joined Schalke on loan in the 2021/22 season, achieving promotion back to the top flight and he impressed so much in the second tier of German football that several clubs were interested in acquiring his services.

Schalke did not have the necessary means to make his move permanent but he decided to remain in the country and sign with Gladbach. There, his form has been up and down, though he remains a key player. Despite hiring a new coach in Gerardo Seoane in the summer, the storied Bundesliga side are still inconsistent and need to be careful not to get sucked into a relegation battle.

Itakura a wanted man

All of the above notwithstanding, Itakura remains a very talented player and can be an exceptional defender on his day. According to Fabrizio Romano, this fact is well-recognised in England.

The transfer expert has revealed that Liverpool and Tottenham are monitoring the Gladbach man. Itakura likely wouldn't be a starter for either side, but he would offer solid depth and he likely won't be too expensive.

Spurs boss Ange Postecoglou had already wanted the 26-year-old at Celtic, while Reds scouts have been very active in following him. Romano revealed that the Japan international has a release clause that becomes active in the summer, though he did not disclose how much it is worth.

German media had hitherto been oblivious to the fact that Itakura has an exit clause, so this is an interesting revelation. His Estimated Transfer Value (ETV) currently stands at €5.6 million.