In light of recent speculation, the idea of Takehiro Tomiyasu leaving Arsenal on loan seems highly unlikely.

The Japanese defender’s crucial role in the team’s defence, when fit, makes his presence at Emirates Stadium indispensable this season.

SEVILLE, SPAIN - OCTOBER 24: Takehiro Tomiyasu of Arsenal FC looks on during the UEFA Champions League match between Sevilla FC and Arsenal FC at Estadio Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan on October 24, 2023 in Seville, Spain. (Photo by Fran Santiago/Getty Images)
SEVILLE, SPAIN – OCTOBER 24: Takehiro Tomiyasu of Arsenal FC looks on during the UEFA Champions League match between Sevilla FC and Arsenal FC at Estadio Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan on October 24, 2023 in Seville, Spain. (Photo by Fran Santiago/Getty Images)yasu

The recent rumour of Takehiro Tomiyasu potentially leaving Arsenal on loan seems far-fetched, considering the club’s pressing defensive requirements.

Contrary to the claims by Il Mattino, picked up by Bild, about Arsenal’s willingness to let the 25-year-old Japanese defender go on loan, the reality at the Emirates Stadium suggests otherwise.

When fit, Tomiyasu has been an integral part of Mikel Arteta‘s defence, and with Arsenal not in a position to weaken their backline, the idea of sending him on loan appears impractical, to say the least.

BRENTFORD, ENGLAND - SEPTEMBER 27: Takehiro Tomiyasu of Arsenal sprays water on his face during the Carabao Cup Third Round match between Brentford and Arsenal at Gtech Community Stadium on September 27, 2023 in Brentford, England. (Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images)
BRENTFORD, ENGLAND – SEPTEMBER 27: Takehiro Tomiyasu of Arsenal sprays water on his face during the Carabao Cup Third Round match between Brentford and Arsenal at Gtech Community Stadium on September 27, 2023 in Brentford, England. (Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images)

While SSC Napoli has shown interest in Tomiyasu, and Bayern Munich were previously linked with him, Arsenal’s situation makes any loan move unlikely. The club’s defensive needs, especially in a demanding season on multiple fronts, requires depth and stability, roles that Tomiyasu fulfils effectively.

Furthermore, the notion of Arsenal discussing a contract extension with Tomiyasu, as reported by Fabrizio Romano, aligns more closely with the club’s intentions than any loan speculation.

Given the importance of a solid defence in the Premier League, and Arsenal’s ambitions this season, the rumour of Tomiyasu’s loan move should be viewed with scepticism.

It’s a scenario that doesn’t match the club’s current needs or strategic direction, especially in the middle of a competitive season.