Tomiyasu Set for Ajax Medical After Arsenal Exit

Japanese defender Takehiro Tomiyasu is reportedly on the verge of resurrecting his career in the Netherlands, with the 27-year-old scheduled to undergo a medical ahead of a move to Eredivisie giants Ajax. The versatile full-back became a free agent over the summer after reaching a mutual agreement with Arsenal to terminate his contract a year early, concluding an injury-plagued spell in North London.

The decision for Tomiyasu to leave Arsenal was heavily influenced by recurring injury issues, most notably a knee problem that required two surgeries, the last of which was in February. His prolonged absence from the first-team picture, coupled with Arsenal’s subsequent defensive recruitment, made his departure a logical step for all parties. The Gunners brought in defensive reinforcements, including Piero Hincapie and Cristhian Mosquera, signaling that first-team opportunities for the Japan international would be severely limited upon his return to fitness. Tomiyasu himself admitted the exit was a “peaceful departure” but conceded that he began questioning his future at the club due to the relentless pressure and uncertainty surrounding his injury recovery.

Having successfully completed an intensive rehabilitation programme, Tomiyasu is now back in full training and poised to officially restart his professional career in Amsterdam. The potential move to Ajax is viewed by both the club and the player as a smart, low-risk proposition. Provided he successfully navigates the medical examination, Tomiyasu is expected to sign a short-term contract with the Dutch side, committing him to the club only until the end of the current season.

For Ajax, who are experiencing a disappointing campaign by their lofty standards—currently languishing in fourth place and struggling with defensive solidity—the acquisition of a versatile, high-caliber defender, even on a short-term basis, is a welcome boost. The deal allows them to assess the 42-cap Japanese international’s fitness and ability to withstand competitive pressure without a significant financial commitment.

For Tomiyasu, the move to the Eredivisie offers a vital platform to regain match fitness and consistency. The defender is highly motivated to return to peak form, especially with an eye on cementing his place in the Japan national team squad for the upcoming 2026 World Cup in North America. This half-season “prove-it” deal in Amsterdam presents the perfect runway for him to rebuild his career and demonstrate that his injury woes are finally behind him, thereby turning a frustrating chapter in England into a fresh, high-profile opportunity in the Netherlands.