FSV Mainz sporting director Niko Bungert has admitted the Bundesliga club would be willing to consider offers for Kaishu Sano this summer.
Although Niko Bungert stressed that any potential suitor would need to meet the club’s valuation of Kaishu Sano. The 25-year-old Japan international has emerged as one of the most sought-after defensive midfielders in Europe following an impressive World Cup campaign, including the wonder goal against Brazil, and another consistent season in the Bundesliga.
Liverpool are among the clubs credited with an interest in Sano, while Arsenal, Manchester United and Borussia Dortmund have also been linked with the player in recent weeks. Speaking about Sano’s future, Bungert acknowledged that the midfielder’s performances have naturally attracted attention from some of Europe’s biggest clubs. However, he made it clear that Mainz is under no financial pressure to cash in on the player.
Sano’s energetic style, defensive awareness and ability to cover large areas of the pitch have reportedly convinced Liverpool’s recruitment staff that he would thrive in the Premier League. The Merseyside club are believed to be assessing options in defensive midfield, with uncertainty surrounding the futures of experienced midfielder Wataru Endo and youngster Stefan Bajcetic. His displays for Japan at the World Cup have only strengthened that belief.
The sporting director stressed that Sano remains under a long-term contract until 2028, giving Mainz complete control over any negotiations. Bungert explained that the club would assess any proposal that arrives but insisted they would not sanction a sale unless it reflects the player’s true market value. If prospective buyers fail to meet their asking price, Mainz is prepared to retain Sano.
He said to Bild via Sport Witness, “It’s obvious that a player who has played two years in the Bundesliga and was outstanding at the World Cup, probably the best player in his position, is in demand,” he said.
“There’s no doubt there are interested parties. It’s well known that England is the league where outstanding players usually move. Our big advantage is that the player still has a long-term contract, so we’re under no pressure at all and won’t be rushing anything.”
“If a club comes along with an offer, we’ll consider it. If, in our view, it’s not high enough for the player’s market value, then it’s also possible that Kaishū will stay with us longer. As of today, everything is still open. But we know, of course, that we have a player who is generating a lot of interest.”
According to reports in Germany, Mainz are expected to demand a fee close to €60 million for the midfielder, despite Transfermarkt valuing him at around €40 million. The Bundesliga outfit believe Sano’s outstanding performances over the past two years, coupled with his impressive World Cup displays, justify a premium valuation.
Liverpool’s reported interest has intensified following suggestions earlier this week that the Premier League champions could prepare a significant offer. Mainz, however, remains in a strong negotiating position. Having signed Sano from Kashima Antlers in 2024, the German club have watched his stock rise significantly after two impressive Bundesliga campaigns.
