Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta
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Arsenal are reportedly in negotiations with the representatives of Japanese defender Takehiro Tomiyasu over a mutual termination of his contract, according to an exclusive report from Hand of Arsenal.
The discussions mark a possible end to Tomiyasu’s four-year spell at the Emirates Stadium, as interest from Saudi Arabian clubs begins to mount. The 25-year-old defender, signed from Bologna in 2021 for a reported £16 million, has been a reliable and versatile option under Mikel Arteta, making 84 appearances across all competitions and featuring in both full-back and centre-back roles.
Tomiyasu’s time at Arsenal has been highlighted by impressive displays, most notably his performance against Mohamed Salah in Arsenal’s 3-2 win over Liverpool in 2022, but has also been marred by a string of injuries. Since joining, the Japan international has missed over 50 games for club and country due to persistent knee and calf issues.
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The most recent setback came during Arsenal’s pre-season tour in 2024, when a knee injury required surgery, followed by a corrective procedure in early 2025. He is not expected to regain full fitness until late in the year, a factor believed to be influencing the club’s willingness to explore a mutual separation.
🚨Arsenal have been in discussions with the camp of Takehiro Tomiyasu to mutually part ways pending an agreement. That is the direction of travel as we speak.
Clubs from Saudi Arabia have made contact with the players agency yesterday.
[@HandofArsenal] pic.twitter.com/7ZICaPtM2I
— now.arsenal (@now_arsenaI) July 4, 2025
Tomiyasu’s current deal runs until 2026, with an option for a further year. However, Arsenal’s growing defensive depth, with the likes of Ben White, William Saliba, Gabriel Magalhães, Jurrien Timber, Jakub Kiwior and recent signing Riccardo Calafiori, has pushed him further down the pecking order.
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While Tomiyasu had previously attracted interest from Serie A clubs including Juventus, Napoli, and Inter Milan, a move failed to materialise due to his injury concerns and Arsenal’s valuation. Now, the Saudi Pro League has emerged as a potential destination, with several clubs reportedly reaching out to the player’s camp.
Reactions among fans have been mixed, with some lamenting the departure of a “first-class professional” whose career has been derailed by injuries, while others view it as a necessary step given his limited availability.
Manager Mikel Arteta has yet to comment on the situation, but the move would be consistent with Arsenal’s recent emphasis on maintaining a fit and competitive squad ahead of the new season.
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