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Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images

Liverpool scouts seriously impressed by Red Bull defender Rion Ichihara after U20 World Cup breakout

Originally posted on HITC | By James Brooke | Last updated Oct 8, 2025 10:47 AM ET

Liverpool have taken notice of Japan captain Rion Ichihara’s performances at the U20 World Cup, with club scouts reportedly impressed by what they’ve seen so far.

The young centre-back has been turning heads throughout the tournament, and it’s understood that Liverpool’s recruitment team has taken a keen interest in his progress.

Earlier reports from RTK noted that Reds scouts were already in Chile, looking to get a closer look at some of the top emerging talent from around the globe.

Ichihara was named man of the match in both of Japan’s opening fixtures, further raising his profile among those watching closely.

Liverpool are currently dealing with limited options at centre-back after recent signing Giovanni Leoni was sidelined for the remainder of the season.

Rion Ichihara expected to make European move

Ichihara is currently playing for RB Omiya Ardija, a second-division side in Japan. And it’s worth noting the Red Bull connection, considering Klopp’s links with the system.

Liverpool have already worked with other clubs in the Red Bull network, including deals with both Salzburg and Leipzig. They were aware of Ichihara before this month’s tournament kicked off.

The 20-year-old has only added to his reputation during the competition, converting penalties in each of Japan’s first two games.

Photo by Buda Mendes – FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images

Standing out as one of Japan’s more promising young talents, Ichihara brings a strong presence to the back line. And RTK understands that a move to Europe could be on the cards next year.

A January transfer hasn’t been ruled out either. But Liverpool are just one of several clubs keeping an eye on how he develops.

Rion Ichihara expected to move to Europe

Rion Ichihara, who currently plays for second-division side RB Omiya Ardija, is part of the Red Bull network of clubs. With Jurgen Klopp’s past ties to Red Bull, it’s an interesting connection.

Liverpool have done business with other clubs in the same network, like Salzburg and Leipzig. The Reds were already aware of Ichihara before the tournament started this month.

Photo by Buda Mendes – FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images

The 20-year-old has built on his reputation during this World Cup, converting penalties in both of Japan’s opening matches and showcasing his composure under pressure.

Standing at 6’3”, Ichihara has caught attention not just for his size but for his presence at the back. Reports suggest a move to Europe could be on the cards as early as January 2026.

Liverpool are one of several clubs monitoring him closely ahead of the next window, but they’re far from alone in that regard.

What should we know about Rion Ichihara?

Centre-back is expected to be a key area of focus for Liverpool in the transfer market during 2026. The Reds could look to sign more than one defender across the January and summer windows.

Liverpool are also being linked with players like Marc Guehi, so a move for Ichihara would likely be viewed as more developmental rather than immediate first-team reinforcement.

Season	Appearances	Goals	Assists
2023	18	0	0
2024	31	4	1
2025	24	1	1

The Japanese youngster is already well established within Red Bull’s setup and could eventually make an internal move within their system before heading elsewhere.

He has already made over 70 appearances for RB Omiya Ardija’s first team and remains heavily involved as they push for promotion this season.

Already captain of Japan’s U20s, he will be looking to break into the senior squad ahead of next year’s World Cup.

This article first appeared on HITC and was syndicated with permission.

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