Arsenal have now confirmed that defender Takehiro Tomiyasu has signed a contract extension, keeping him at the club for the foreseeable future.
The 25-year-old has struggled with injuries for large parts of the season, but hit his best performance levels when fit, and is a valuable asset for Mikel Arteta.
Arsenal have been proactive in handing out contract extensions in recent months, with fellow defender Ben White also extending his terms last week, and they were keen to tie Tomiyasu down to a new deal after speculation linking him with Bayern Munich before the January transfer window.
Director Edu Gaspar has now praised Tomiyasu following the announcement of his new contract, and highlighted his valuable qualities.
Edu Gaspar praises Takehiro Tomiyasu
Speaking via official club media, Edu put emphasis on Tomiyasu’s character and his ability to play in several positions as reasons behind his new deal.
“We are very excited to have Tomi with us for more years to come,” he stated.
“He has huge qualities both on and off the pitch, and offers so much strength and versatility to our squad.
“Tomi is a top professional and it’s great that he’ll continue to play an important role in the coming years, as we work towards achieving our goals.”
Why Arsenal gave Takehiro Tomiyasu a new contract
Tomiyasu’s previous deal was set to expire in 2025, meaning that this summer would have been a case of sign or sell with regard to the versatile defender.
Arteta is a big fan of Tomiyasu, and often trusts him in the biggest games because of his tactical intelligence and outstanding pure defensive ability.
The Japan International can play across the back line, and now he is back from injury, he will provide much-needed cover on both sides at full-back.
White has been in sensational form recently, but is also carrying an injury, and at times Cedric Soares has had to be used as a substitute to allow him to rest when Arsenal have been comfortably leading.
Even having Tomiyasu on the bench should help in this regard, and with some tough games coming up both domestically and in Europe, the defender will have a huge role to play in the final months of the season.