Tottenham agree deal for defender, he’ll play final game for his club on Saturday
Tottenham have been relatively quiet in the market this summer, but that is expected to change now that a deal has been agreed for a defender.
Only four teams conceded more times than Tottenham in the Premier League last season.
Therefore, it is no surprise that several centre-backs have been linked with the Lilywhites this summer, including Everton’s Jarrad Branthwaite.
However, improving Spurs’ defensive record will not be the only objective on Daniel Levy’s mind. Tottenham could lose several defenders this summer, including Cristian Romero.
As a result, a new centre-back is needed, with a deal now agreed.
Tottenham agree record deal for Kōta Takai
Tottenham have reportedly agreed to pay a £5million fee to sign Kōta Takai from Kawasaki Frontale.
Takai becomes the most expensive signing from the J1 League and has been praised for his excellent anticipation and one-on-one ability. Therefore, the 20-year-old is expected to be a worthwhile signing.
| Player | Appearances | Goals | Yellow Cards | Minutes |
| Kota Takai | 30 | 2 | 3 | 2.656′ |
| Cristian Romero | 26 | 1 | 5 | 2.102′ |
As reported by The Times on Monday (30 June), Takai will play his final game for Kawasaki Frontale on Saturday (5 July) before travelling to London next week to meet his new teammates.
It comes amid reports of Romero potentially signing for Atletico Madrid. The defender is a beloved character at Spurs, but is believed to have been strongly affected by the departure of Ange Postecoglou.
While it has been suggested that Thomas Frank is keen to have him in his squad next season, the Argentine could be ready for a new challenge.
Takai signing has several meanings at Tottenham
News that Spurs had agreed to sign Takai was entirely unexpected for most, but could indicate several different things.
The first is to do with Romero. There is little reason to suspect that Tottenham will be willing to let the World Cup winner leave without signing a suitable replacement.
However, while Takai could be the next best defensive talent in football, it is unwise to expect any player to adapt quickly to a new team, league and manager. As a result, this could suggest that Romero will continue at Spurs next season – that or the club have thought little about life without the Argentine.
Furthermore, Takai’s arrival could signal that Ben Davies is on his way out despite signing an extension at Hotspur Way. The defender has been linked to several sides, including Wrexham, and is unlikely to want to spend another season competing for more minutes.
Therefore, the signing of Takai could represent more than a good market opportunity.
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