Takehiro Tomiyasu signs contract extension at Arsenal until 2026 as Mikel Arteta ties defender down to long-term deal… just days after Ben White extended his stay at the club

Takehiro Tomiyasu has signed a long-term Arsenal contract to 2026, with the option for an extra year, as he called on his team-mates to ‘win something’ this season.

The 25-year-old defender has made a real mark since joining the Gunners in August 2021 from Serie A side Bologna, going on to become a key figure in the squad.

The versatile Japanese international, who can play a variety of positions across the backline, has made 73 Arsenal appearances so far.

It follows Arsenal’s deal to extend Ben White’s contract earlier this week, adding to a long list of stars that sporting director Edu has got to commit their futures to the club.

Tomiyasu spoke of his happiness at playing for ‘one of the best clubs in the world’.

Mikel Arteta has opted to reward the defender for his performances during the campaign

He said: ‘I’m so happy to extend my contract because Arsenal is one of the best clubs in the world. And it’s a dream to play for this club, so I’m happy.

‘We improved a lot, because when I joined Arsenal, we were not playing in European competitions. But now we are playing in the Champions League and we are in the title race. We improved a lot.

‘I want to achieve something. I want to win something with my team-mates, with the supporters.’

Manager Mikel Arteta added: ‘Tomi is loved by everyone and has been an integral part of the squad since joining us.

‘The way he trains, with his desire and determination to be the best version of himself every day, is admirable. We look forward to continue working with Tomi in the future years.’

The defender has made 20 appearances in total for the Gunners throughout 2023-24