Arsenal complete signing of £20m Bologna and Japan defender Takehiro Tomiyasu

Arsenal have completed the signing of Bologna defender and Japan international Takehiro Tomiyasu. The Japan international, 22, signed a long-term contract after he completed his medical in Bologna on Tuesday, August 31, in a £19.8m deal.
The deal was dependent on other player movements at the club which saw Hector Bellerin move to Real Betis after he completed his medical in London before flying to Spain. Speaking to arsenal.com, technical director Edu said: “We’re delighted to have signed Takehiro. We’ve been watching him for a while now and we’re pleased that we have reached an agreement with Bologna. He is an important addition to our squad.” Manager Mikel Arteta added: “Takehiro is a strong defender with good experience in Serie A and at international level. He’s a versatile defender with great defensive qualities, high technical ability and composure on the ball. “He will be an important member of our squad. We look forward to Takehiro joining up with us when he returns from international duty.” Tomiyasu leaves Bologna after scoring three goals and claiming three assists in 64 appearances, and he will wear the number 18 shirt at Arsenal.