Arsenal to 'announce long-term deal imminently' as Gunners make Bayern feelings clear

Arsenal defender Takehiro Tomiyasu has reportedly agreed a new long-term deal with the club in a clear message to Bayern Munich. The Japanese international was linked with the Bundesliga champions last month, with manager Thomas Tuchel continuing to raid the Premier League for players.

But a move didn’t materialise, and now the North London club have seemingly staved off the threat of a summer departure. According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, the 25-year-old has accepted an offer from the Gunners for a new deal.

“Takehiro Tomiyasu’s new deal at Arsenal, agreed and sealed. Japanese defender set to sign new long term contract at the club. Decision wanted by both board and Arteta as there was never any chance for Tomiyasu to leave in January. Announcement to follow soon.”

Tomiyasu has made 73 club appearances sign joining from Bologna for £16million in August 2021. But he has struggled to nail down a regular place this season, with Arteta preferring the central defensive partnership of Gabriel and William Saliba.

Iran v Japan: Quarter Final - AFC Asian Cup

Takehiro Tomiyasu has been on international duty with Japan at the Asian Cup. (Image: Getty)

But before Christmas, the Spaniard dismissed speculation that the Japanese international was in-line to be sold. "I really want him to stay," he told reporters. "I value the player a lot, I really like him.

"He’s loved and respected by everybody at the club. He’s getting a lot of minutes now. He’s getting to a level of availability that we need to make an impact on the team. He will continue to be with us."