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Former Arsenal fan favourite set for Serie A move

Former Gunner Takehiro Tomiyasu could be set for a return to Serie A, with Venezia reportedly offering him a three-year contract.

Gabriel Magalhaes #3 of Brazil embraces Takehiro Tomiyasu #22 of Japan after the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round Of 32 match between Brazil and Japan at Houston Stadium on June 29, 2026 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Molly Darlington/Getty Images)
Photo by Molly Darlington/Getty Images

TMW broke the news on Thursday night that Venezia are closing in on the signing of Takehiro Tomiyasu on a free transfer, following the conclusion of the former Gunner’s contract with Ajax this summer.

Andrea Losapio reports that Venezia have secured Tomiyasu’s approval on a three-year contract worth €1m net per year, plus bonuses based on appearances.

Venezia have had a long-term interest in Tomiyasu, but the deal was initially put on hold as the club decided whether or not to go ahead with a move. With that decision now made, it seems things could progress quickly.

HIROSHIMA, JAPAN - JUNE 11: Takehiro Tomiyasu of Japan looks on during the FIFA World Cup Asian second qualifier Group B match between Japan and Syria at Edion Peace Wing Hiroshima on June 11, 2024 in Hiroshima, Japan. (Photo by Koji Watanabe/Getty Images)
Photo by Koji Watanabe/Getty Images

Fabrizio Romano confirms that Venezia have offered Tomiyasu a three-year deal for a potential move as a free agent, though he adds that talks are still ongoing, with the club awaiting the player’s final decision.

Tomiyasu is on his summer holidays at the moment, having participated in the World Cup with Japan.

The defender made three appearances and two starts in Japan’s four games at the tournament, before Gabriel Martinelli’s late winner for Brazil sent them home on June 29th.

Assuming Tomiyasu gets no more than the three-week minimum break, he could be available to link up with a new club for pre-season starting from early next week.

Takehiro Tomiyasu signing for Ajax (Photo via Ajax.nl)
Photo via Ajax.nl

Prior to the World Cup, Tomiyasu made his long-awaited return to the pitch with Ajax, appearing seven times for the Dutch club on a short-term contract.

The ex-Arsenal man probably would have played more if not for a red card in mid-April, but he only had a bench role after his return from suspension.

Tomiyasu recently spoke out about his frustrations during the latter period of his spell at Arsenal, saying: “I never imagined I would go through such a tough time at Arsenal, because I’ve always taken great care of my body. I’ve probably done more than anyone else.

“My first six months in London were amazing. It was like a dream. I can understand if my approach was wrong. Some players don’t get injured even if they party after a match. I didn’t do anything reckless, yet it happened to me. I felt frustrated at that time.

“Eventually, you realize that things happen in life that you can’t control. There’s no point in getting angry about them. Everything goes on.”

Takehiro Tomiyasu in training with Arsenal (Photo via Arsenal.com)
Photo via Arsenal.com
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