Mainz have put a deadline of 27 August regarding the possible departure of Kaishu Sano, according to BILD. The club first wants to make sure there is a suitable replacement before letting the Japanese midfielder depart.
The 25-year-old has been linked with Liverpool, Newcastle United and RB Leipzig. His current contract at Mainz runs until the end of June 2028, which means Mainz are not under any pressure to let the player depart.
According to the report, Mainz will only consider selling Sano if an offer of at least €60m is put forward. Mainz sporting director Christian Heidel, speaking to BILD, stated that they won’t sell Sano on 31 August as they need to be able to react.
Sano joined Mainz from Kashima Antlers for a fee of €2.5 m in 2024. He has made 34 league appearances in both seasons he played for the club. Last season, he managed to score a goal and provide two assists in the Bundesliga. Sano was also part of the Japan national team at the 2026 FIFA World Cup and scored for his side against Brazil in the last 32 of the competition.
GGFN | Brook Genene