Sassuolo pursues free‑agent Tomiyasu as Ajax defender plans exit

Italian Serie A club US Sassuolo has contacted Japanese defender Takehiro Tomiyasu, who is a free agent after his short‑term deal with Ajax, according to transfer journalist Nicolò Schira. The Serie A side is reportedly looking to add the 27‑year‑old to its squad this summer. Takehiro Tomiyasu moved from Arsenal to Ajax in the winter window after more than eighteen months sidelined by a knee injury. In Amsterdam he signed a six‑month contract and featured in nine matches. At Ajax the 27‑year‑old World Cup participant was primarily used as a substitute. His limited playing time reflected the club’s short‑term arrangement. The Telegraph previously reported that an extended stay at Ajax was unlikely for Tomiyasu. The report underscored the uncertainty surrounding his future in the Netherlands.

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Several European clubs, including those from the Premier League, have been monitoring the Japanese defender ahead of the World Cup. Their interest adds pressure on Ajax to resolve his contract situation. Transfer journalist Nicolò Schira now Serie A side US Sassuolo has made an enquiry about Tomiyasu. The Italian club is reportedly looking to add the free‑agent to its squad this summer. Tomiyasu announced at the end of May that he will leave Ajax this summer. He posted on Instagram: ‘Hallo Ajax-fans. Het duurde maar vijf maanden, maar toch wil ik jullie bedanken.’ If the transfer materialises, Tomiyasu would become the eleventh Italian club of his career, joining US Sassuolo. His own statement suggests his departure from Ajax is imminent, leaving his next destination open.