The early reaction from Japan paints a promising picture for Tottenham Hotspur, as Kawasaki Frontale supporters express excitement and admiration for Spurs’ new signing Kota Takai, suggesting the club may have uncovered a real gem.
Only just yesterday, following the £5 million agreement between Tottenham Hotspur and Kawasaki Frontale, did Kota Takai land in north London.
The Japan international has already introduced himself to the Spurs faithful, making it clear that he is prepared to give his all when he pulls on the Lilywhite shirt of Tottenham.
He is now expected to join the rest of the Tottenham squad for pre-season training, as preparations begin in earnest for their opening friendly fixture against Reading.
Tottenham fans hear from Kawasaki Frontale supporters after Kota Takai transfer
With Kota Takai now officially a Tottenham player, fans of Japanese side Kawasaki Frontale have flooded social media with farewell messages and words of encouragement, suggesting that Spurs may have unearthed something special in the 20-year-old.
These supporters have followed Takai’s journey closely, having watched him rise through the ranks and make 81 appearances for the J.League side during his time in Asia.
Taking to X, formerly Twitter, one supporter wrote: “Looking forward to your success in the Premier League – I will keep cheering for you.”
Another added: “Become the world’s best defender.” A third claimed that an “amazing centre-back has arrived” at Tottenham, while one more suggested he could become “a player who shines on the world stage” now that he has linked up with Thomas Frank in N17.
Spurs centre-back competition means pre-season is key for Kota Takai
With Takai now added to the mix at Spurs, the club’s centre-back options are currently stacked, with at least eight defenders battling it out for a place in Thomas Frank’s plans.
Reports continue to link Tottenham with interest in other central defenders, including Giorgio Scalvini and Maxime Esteve, suggesting the club’s recruitment drive at the back may not yet be over.
Cristian Romero’s future also remains uncertain. Despite ongoing links to Atletico Madrid, no official offers have been submitted for Romero.
Of course, with such fierce competition, pre-season will be crucial for Takai, who must now stake his claim alongside some of the Premier League’s best defenders, as well as a crop of highly rated young prospects.
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