Former Goal.com Japan editor Tasuku Okawa has now weighed in on what Tottenham fans can expect from their rumoured new Japanese signing, Kota Takai.
Spurs have now completed their third signing of the summer transfer window, with reports confirming that centre-back Kota Takai is set to join Tottenham from Kawasaki Frontale, in a deal worth £5million.
Despite being just 20 years old, Takai has already clocked 78 top-flight appearances in the Japanese League, showing his wealth of experience.
Kota Takai also caught the eye when facing off against global stars like Cristiano Ronaldo and Sadio Mane in the Asian Champions League, as Al Nassr suffered a 3-2 shock defeat at the hands of Kawasaki Frontale.
While the 20-year-old centre-back may not be a household name in European football circles just yet, Spurs supporters will be hopeful that the Japanese defender can fulfil his potential and cement himself as a key figure in the heart of their defence in the coming years.
Freelance football editor and former Goal.com Japan chief editor, Tasuku Okawa, has given insight into what Tottenham fans should expect from the club’s newest defensive addition.
The Japanese football analyst explained how Takai is not only comfortable operating on the left in a centre-back pairing despite being right-footed, but also possesses the athleticism to feature at right-back when needed – a trait that could prove invaluable across a long season.
According to Okawa, the 20-year-old defender’s adaptability and physical attributes make him an intriguing option for Thomas Frank, with the ability to slot into a back three or cover full-back duties when required – an encouraging prospect for Spurs heading into the new campaign.
He told football.london: “Although he is right-footed, he has played on the left side of a centre-back pairing when partnered with Jesiel [at Kawasaki] and has said he does not see it as a problem. He has also been used as a full-back for the Japan under-20s.
“Thanks to his speed, he could be a decent option there if needed. He also covers a lot of ground even as a centre-back, and he has shown he can handle playing in a back three – as he has done for the senior national team.”
What Takai offers Spurs as a Micky Van de Ven alternative
Of course, Spurs have long been in the market for a left-sided centre-back with recovery pace who can deputise for Micky van de Ven when necessary.
While Takai may not possess the electric acceleration of the Dutchman, the fact that he is capable of holding his own on the left side of defence is a significant plus for Tottenham’s depth and balance at the back.
There are rumours that the experienced Ben Davies could still leave Tottenham this summer despite the club extending his contract by 12 months. Kota Takai could slot into the Tottenham squad as that replacement rotation option on the left side of defence.
With the Japanese international still only just 20, there remains plenty of room for development, and if given time to adapt and improve, he could well grow into a regular part of Thomas Frank’s Tottenham side.
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