Takehiro Tomiyasu has signed a new contract at Arsenal that will extend his stay until at least 2026. The Japan international is the latest defender to have committed his future to the Premier League leaders, his deal having been confirmed less than a week after Ben White agreed fresh terms. Tomiyasu’s contract had been due to expire next year.
Tomiyasu joined Arsenal from Bologna in August 2021 and, while not always a regular in the starting XI, has become a valuable and versatile member of the squad. His new contract includes an option for a 12-month extension.
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“I’m playing for Arsenal and this means I’m playing for Arsenal’s supporters,” Tomiyasu said. “So that’s why I dedicate my life for this club, and for the supporters. I want to give them something back.”
Tomiyasu has been restricted to 20 club appearances this season because of calf problems and a spell with Japan at the Asia Cup; he also missed the later stages of 2022-23 after a knee injury required surgery. But he has the trust of Mikel Arteta, who has seen him perform admirably in a range of defensive positions. He has tended to operate in full-back roles, although he plays as a centre-half for Japan.
“Together with his natural ability and strength, Tomi’s attitude, mentality and values are first class,” Arteta said. “Tomi is loved by everyone and has been an integral part of the squad since joining us. The way he trains, with his desire and determination to be the best version of himself every day, is admirable.”
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The 25-year-old Tomiyasu, who played for Sint-Truiden in Belgium and the Japanese club Avispa Fukuoka before moving to Serie A, has played 73 times for Arsenal and scored his first goal in the win over Sheffield United last October. He returned to the matchday squad for after his most recent absence and hopes to mark his comeback with a successful end to the campaign. “I want to achieve something,” he said. “I want to win something with my teammates, with the supporters.”