Former Arsenal, Ajax, and Bologna defender Takehiro Tomiyasu could be set for a return to Serie A. The 27-year-old Japan international is currently a free agent after concluding his time with Ajax, having joined the Dutch club on a free transfer last summer following his departure from Arsenal.
Reports from Tuttomercatoweb indicate that negotiations are underway with the player's representatives regarding a potential move to either Sassuolo or newly-promoted Venezia. The versatile defender, who is capable of playing centrally or as a full-back on either flank, previously spent time in the Italian top flight with Bologna between 2019 and 2021. During that period, he made 61 Serie A appearances, contributing three goals and three assists before completing an €18.6m transfer to Arsenal.
Tomiyasu’s recent career has been impacted by a serious knee injury that sidelined him from July 2024 until October 2025. Despite this setback, he successfully returned to action and participated in the 2026 World Cup with Japan. Venezia, in particular, has pursued the defender following news that their player Marin Sverko requires surgery, an injury that is expected to keep him out of action for several months.
He amassed 61 Serie A appearances, scoring three goals and providing three assists playing for the Rossoblu.
