Things to know about Japan defender Takehiro Tomiyasu

Arsenal seemingly have hundreds of right-backs but none of them have cut the mustard so far, leading to them dipping into the transfer market for another one.

Step forward Takehiro Tomiyasu, the Bologna man who will soon become Mikel Arteta's sixth signing of the summer transfer window.

Now, you may be wondering 'who on Earth is he?' Well, we've got you covered; here's what you should know about him.

1. His physicality is impressive

Standing at 6'2", Tomiyasu is a very imposing presence at the back. What makes him even more dominating is his sheer strength and speed, making him the ideal modern-day defender.

He also possesses an impressive aerial ability, adding quality in both penalty areas. As well as winning just under three aerial battles per 90 minutes in Serie A last campaign, the Japanese defender registered two goals.

2. He's versatile

During the 2020/21 season, Tomiyasu played 17 games at centre back, 14 times at right back and twice at left back across all competitions.

The 22-year is two footed and his combination of brutish physicality, defensive awareness, speed and technical prowess (all proven in the highlight reel above) allow him to perform anywhere across the back line.

3. He's been in Europe since he was a teenager

Tomiyasu had just turned 19 when he left his home country to sign for Belgian Pro League side Sint-Truiden in January 2018.

In the summer of 2019, after his first full season in Belgium, Bologna snapped him up in a deal worth €9m.

Talk about impact.

4. He's represented Japan at every level

Tomiyasu has been a component of Japan's international set up since the age of 13. He's represented his nation at every level from Under-14s up to the senior side, winning the Asian Football Confederation Under-19 Championships in 2016.

Now, at just 22, the Bologna man has been capped 23 times at senior level and bagged one goal, becoming a first-choice option in the process.

He partnered former Southampton player Maya Yoshida at the heart of defence as Japan thrashed Mongolia 14-0 back in March.

5. He'll feature at the Tokyo Olympics

Tomiyasu also formed part of Japan's 2020 Olympic squad, playing 90 minutes as the hosts romped to a 4-0 victory over France in their final group game.

He followed this up with appearances in the quarter-finals and third-place playoff as his side just missed out on a medal.

6. He's in the AFC team of the decade

Now, this one is quite staggering.

22-year old Tomiyasu, having only made his international senior debut in October 2018, was named by the International Federation of Football History and Statistics in the Asian Football Confederation's team of the decade for 2011-2020.

The defender was chosen alongside the likes of Yoshida, Keisuke Honda and Son-Heung min.

If that doesn't scream potential to be a star, then I don't know what does.

7. FIFA rating and potential

Tomiyasu was a very tidy player to pick up in your FIFA 21 Career Mode.

Just 21 at the start of a save, the defender is already rated at 75 with the potential to grow to huge 85.

A promising, strong, pacey centre back with five-star weak foot to boot; who wouldn't want to invest? Arsenal will be hoping he fulfils this potential in real life over the next few years.