Tottenham has signed Japan defender Kota Takai from Kawasaki Frontale for £5m, with the 20-year-old signing a five-year contract with the club.

Tottenham has signed Japan defender Kota Takai from J-League side Kawasaki Frontale for £5m.

The 20-year-old has signed a five-year contract until the summer of 2030 and will be part of Thomas Frank’s first-team squad. Takai has already gained valuable experience, winning four caps for Japan’s senior side and making his international debut in a World Cup qualifier versus China last September.

Takai’s impressive performances for Kawasaki Frontale earned him recognition as the nation’s best young player in 2024. He played a key role in the team’s victory in the Japanese Super Cup, showcasing his skills and potential. Tottenham’s signing of Takai is a strategic move to strengthen their defense with a talented young player.

The signing of Takai marks Tottenham’s third acquisition of the summer, following the permanent transfers of defender Kevin Danso and forward Mathys Tel, who were initially loaned to the club. With Takai’s addition, Tottenham is looking to build a stronger squad for the upcoming season.

Takai’s youth and talent make him an exciting prospect for Tottenham.

At just 20 years old, he has already demonstrated his capabilities on the international stage and in Japan’s top league. With a five-year contract, Takai will have the opportunity to develop and grow with the club, potentially becoming a key player in the team’s defense.