I turned down Tottenham on deadline day – then I immediately joined Arsenal instead

Takehiro Tomiyasu’s move to Arsenal on deadline day in the summer of 2021 remains one of the more intriguing stories of the transfer window. The Japanese international, who had impressed during his stint at Bologna, found himself at a crossroads as he weighed offers from two North London rivals, Tottenham Hotspur and Arsenal. Ultimately, the defender chose the red side of North London, making a decision that would shape his career in the Premier League.

In the final hours of the window, it seemed likely that Tomiyasu would be heading to Spurs. The 26-year-old revealed in an interview with DAZN Japan that he was prepared to join Tottenham, but when Arsenal expressed their interest late in the day, he turned down Spurs and immediately accepted the Gunners’ proposal. The £17 million transfer added Tomiyasu to a cohort of summer arrivals that included Nuno Tavares, Aaron Ramsdale, Ben White, Martin Ødegaard, and Albert Sambi Lokonga. Arsenal’s recruitment strategy that year marked a significant investment in young talent, with Tomiyasu quickly becoming a key part of the squad.

Reflecting on the move, Tomiyasu admitted he initially thought joining Arsenal might not materialize. “I thought I wasn’t able to join Arsenal. I thought I was going to Spurs. On deadline day, I rejected them. Arsenal asked me to join them, and I did immediately,” he said. His decision to join Arsenal rather than Tottenham showcased not only his preference but also his readiness to embrace the challenge of competing at a club renowned for its footballing history and ambition.

Since his arrival, Tomiyasu has made 84 appearances for Arsenal, scoring two goals and providing six assists across all competitions. His versatility has been a major asset to manager Mikel Arteta, as the defender has been deployed both as a full-back and a center-back. During his first season, Tomiyasu was a regular starter and impressed fans and pundits alike with his composure, defensive acumen, and ability to contribute to Arsenal’s buildup play. However, his role has evolved in subsequent seasons, with competition for places increasing due to the arrivals of players like Jurrien Timber and Ben White’s reinvention as a right-back.

Despite not being a guaranteed starter in recent campaigns, Tomiyasu remains a valued member of the Arsenal squad. He signed a contract extension in March 2026, underlining the club’s commitment to him as an integral part of their plans. Arteta has shown faith in Tomiyasu’s abilities, and the player has maintained a professional attitude, contributing positively on and off the pitch. His teammate Ben White praised him for his seamless integration into the squad, describing him as “such a nice guy” and commending his performances.

There has been speculation regarding Tomiyasu’s future, with reports linking him to a potential move to Inter Milan. However, Arteta is reportedly unwilling to part with the versatile defender, emphasizing his importance to the team’s depth and tactical flexibility. While Tomiyasu may not always start, his reliability and work ethic ensure he is a valuable option for Arteta in various situations.

Tomiyasu’s story is one of resilience and adaptability. Having initially faced challenges in settling into European football during his early career, he has since established himself as a dependable defender in one of the most competitive leagues in the world. His experience in Serie A with Bologna prepared him well for the rigors of the Premier League, and his decision to join Arsenal over Tottenham appears to have been vindicated by the progress he has made at the Emirates Stadium.

As Arsenal navigate the ongoing 2024-25 season, the club faces its share of challenges, including injuries to key players like Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Jesus. Arteta has acknowledged the need to explore potential reinforcements in the January transfer window, but he has also emphasized the importance of maximizing the potential of the current squad. This philosophy aligns with the club’s broader strategy of combining smart recruitment with the development of existing talent.

Tomiyasu’s presence in the squad exemplifies this approach. His ability to adapt to different roles and his commitment to the team make him a vital component of Arteta’s system. Whether starting or coming off the bench, Tomiyasu provides defensive solidity and tactical flexibility, attributes that are crucial for a team competing on multiple fronts.

The decision to turn down Tottenham and join Arsenal has proven to be a defining moment in Tomiyasu’s career. It not only aligned him with a club whose vision matched his ambitions but also allowed him to grow as a player in an environment that values development and teamwork. While speculation about his future may persist, Tomiyasu’s focus remains on contributing to Arsenal’s success and helping the team achieve its goals.

As the January transfer window unfolds, Arsenal fans will be watching closely to see how the club navigates the challenges ahead. Whether or not new signings arrive, the contributions of players like Tomiyasu will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in shaping the team’s fortunes. For Tomiyasu, the journey from deadline-day drama to becoming a respected figure at Arsenal serves as a testament to his determination and adaptability, qualities that have endeared him to fans and teammates alike.