Ajax almost has Takehiro Tomiyasu (27). The transfer-free defender will soon sign a half-season contract. That is confirmed ESPN, after earlier reporting from VI.
The multifunctional Japanese has been without a club since last April, after his departure from Arsenal, and is therefore considered a relatively cheap opportunity for the Amsterdam team.
The fact that Tomiyasu is clubless at the age of 27 has nothing to do with his qualities. The 42-time Japanese international was for years a stable force in coach Mikel Arteta’s defensively strong Arsenal, where he played in every position in defense. But Tomiyasu has had some bad luck with serious (knee) injuries.
After his last operation on his knee last February, the Japanese returned to his native country, where he continued his rehabilitation. Tomiyasu is now ready to get back on the field and is looking for a club where he can get playing minutes again. Ajax seems to be that club.
Given his injury history, Tomiyasu is a gamble – which is why Ajax wants to first offer the defender a half-season contract – but one that Ajax is willing to take. Because if the defender reaches his pre-injury level, he will be an absolute asset to the club.
Tomiyasu was taken over by Arsenal from Bologna for twenty million euros in the summer of 2021 and played The Gunners 84 official matches, of which 65 in the Premier League.
