Mao Itamura completes permanent Liverpool Women transfer
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The deal remains subject to standard visa and international clearance, but it represents a massive coup for the Reds ahead of the new 2026/27 campaign.We are delighted to announce the signing of attacking midfielder Mao Itamura from Feyenoord, subject to visa approval and international clearance ✍️— Liverpool FC Women (@LiverpoolFCW) July 20, 2026Itamura becomes the fifth major addition and will wear the number 26 shirt and during this frantic summer window for manager Gareth Taylor she will be joining a heavily reinforced squad that already boasts new arrivals Vivien Endemann, Sara Agrez, Mari Ward, and goalkeeper Khiara Keating.Why Itamura is the ultimate 'front-footed' threatFor both Liverpool supporters and supporters of the women’s game, Itamura’s stats from last season should set alarm bells ringing for WSL defences.She isn't just a prospect for the future; she is a match-winner right now. During the 2025-26 campaign, Itamura was named the Women’s Eredivisie Player of the Year after guiding Feyenoord’s historic charge into European football.Mao Itamura: 2025-26 Eredivisie campaignStylistically, Itamura is a dynamic, front-footed playmaker who thrives under pressure.
When I reached that goal, I wanted to play for my favourite team. I’m really happy to have the opportunity to play in Liverpool, a big club.”"Mao Itamura - Liverpoolfc.comWhen asked what supporters can expect when she pulls on the number 26 shirt, the teenager was clear about her identity on the pitch."“My strength is dribbling and going all the way to the line.
I want to show everyone my dribbling skills. I also want to contribute to the team with my strengths, goals and assists.”"Welcome to Liverpool, Mao ❤️ pic.twitter.com/RI6WsYAJ4V— Liverpool FC Women (@LiverpoolFCW) July 20, 2026A growing Japanese core on MerseysideWhile Andoni Iraola squad dominates the current headlines with their pre-season tour stateside, Taylor’s women’s side is quietly building a identity capable of disrupting the WSL after a dssapointing 2025/26 campaign and just about scraping survival in the league.One of the most intriguing storylines of this transfer is the partnership Itamura could strike up with her compatriot, Fuka Nagano.