Japan international Takehiro Tomiyasu has joined us from Serie A side Bologna on a long-term contract. The 22-year-old defender started his career in his homeland with Avispa Fukuoka, where he developed through their youth ranks before making 45 first-team appearances between 2015 and 2017.In January 2018 Takehiro moved to Europe, signing for Belgian club Sint-Truiden, where he spent 18 months – during which time he was voted as the club’s player of the season for the 2018/19 campaign. His performances in Belgium earned Takehiro a move to Italy and he completed a move to Bologna in July 2019. During his time in Italy, Takehiro became a regular in Bologna’s defence, making 63 appearances in his two seasons with the Serie A side.

Technical director Edu said: “We’re delighted to have signed Takehiro. We’ve been watching him for a while now and we’re pleased that we have reached an agreement with Bologna. He is an important addition to our squad.” Mikel Arteta added: “Takehiro is a strong defender with good experience in Serie A and at international level. He’s a versatile defender with great defensive qualities, high technical ability and composure on the ball. He will be an important member of our squad. We look forward to Takehiro joining up with us when he returns from international duty.”

Tomiyasu has represented his country at all levels from under-16s through to the senior side. He has made 23 appearances for the Japan national team and was a member of their recent Olympic squad, making three appearances at the Tokyo Olympic Games. Takehiro will wear the number 18 shirt.