Tottenham Hotspur have signed Japan international centre-back Kota Takai from J1 League side Kawasaki Frontale, the Premier League club announced on Tuesday. The 20-year-old agreed a five-year contract, subject to international clearance and a work permit, in a deal valued at about £5 million ($6.8 million, ¥1 billion). British and Japanese media said the figure represents the highest transfer fee ever received by a Japanese club. Takai is the first new arrival under recently appointed head coach Thomas Frank and Spurs’ second transaction of the summer window after converting Mathys Tel’s loan into a permanent move. Capped four times by Japan, the 6-foot-3 defender was named the J.League’s Best Young Player in 2024 and helped Kawasaki Frontale reach the 2025 AFC Champions League final. The move strengthens Tottenham’s central-defensive depth alongside Cristian Romero, Micky van de Ven and Kevin Danso, with Radu Dragusin sidelined by an ACL injury. Takai is expected to link up with the squad for pre-season once paperwork is completed and will compete immediately for a place in Frank’s back line.