Arsenal in talks with versatile defender over new contract

Arsenal have entered talks with defender Takehiro Tomiyasu over a new contract, reports the Athletic. 

The 25-year-old has routinely been called upon by head coach Mikel Arteta following his arrival from Bologna in 2021. 

However, Tomiyasu endured an injury-hit campaign last season and subsequently lost his starting right-back spot to Ben White. 

White has excelled in the role and that means the Japan international has had to bide his time for first-team opportunities. 

Nevertheless, Tomiyasu is still highly thought of by Arteta with Arsenal now in negotiations to extend his current deal, which expires in 2025, though the club do have an option to extend that by 12 months. 

Talks are expected to progress smoothly, with both parties keen on striking an understanding. 

Tomiyasu, who has also featured at left-back for the Gunners this season, has been a regular feature in Arsenal's Champions League campaign having started four of five group stage matches and provided two assists in the midweek 6-0 win over Lens.