Tottenham have confirmed the signing of Japan international Kota Takai.
The 20-year-old defender has joined Spurs from Kawasaki Frontale on a five-year deal for a fee reported to be in the region of £5million.
Takai made his final appearance for Kawasaki in Saturday’s 2-1 defeat of Kashima Antlers.
We are delighted to announce the signing of Kota Takai from J1 League side Kawasaki Frontale, subject to international clearance and work permit ✍️
— Tottenham Hotspur (@SpursOfficial) July 8, 2025
The 6ft 4in centre-back made his debut in an 8-0 win over Guangzhou in 2022 and quickly became an integral part of the side, going on to make 81 senior appearances and helping them reach the 2025 AFC Champions League final.
He made his international debut last September against China.
Higher walls waiting for me – Takai
Speaking on the pitch after the Kashima game, Takai confirmed he was leaving the J.League to further his career in Europe.
He said: “I have decided to pursue another goal I have had since I was little: To play soccer in Europe.
“From now on, I think there will be higher walls waiting for me than ever before, but I would like to make full use of the experiences I have built up until now.”
Takai becomes the third player to complete a move to Spurs this summer with both Kevin Danso and Mathys Tel making last season’s loan deals permanent.
