Tottenham confirm first 'new' signing of summer transfer window

It's been a summer of loan conversions for Tottenham so far, but the first fresh face is through the door. Kota Takai has completed his arrival from Japanese outfit Kawasaki Frontale.

Indecision over the future of Ange Postecoglou has thrust the club into a state of catch-up, and the permanent additions of Mathys Tel and Kevin Danso, following six-month loans, are the only pieces of business conducted by Spurs this summer. Luka Vuskovic has also made his move official after putting pen to paper two years ago.

Takai is thus the first 'new' arrival of the window, with the centre-back only emerging in the consciousness of many supporters after news of a £5m deal being agreed with Kawasaki broke last month.

Tottenham confirm signing of Japanese defender Kota Takai

"We are delighted to announce the signing of Kota Takai from J1 League side Kawasaki Frontale, subject to international clearance and work permit," the start of a club statement wrote.

The 20-year-old centre-back has signed a contract through to 2030.

While Takai is a name the majority of us aren't familiar with, there's reason for optimism regarding his prospects in north London. He's quickly blossomed into a household name back in his homeland, having played for times for his country. Takai has played 81 times for Kawasaki, one of Japan's most successful teams of the 21st century, and helped them reach the AFC Champions League final earlier this year.

Takai helped shut out Cristiano Ronaldo's Al Nassr en route to the final, where they were beaten by Al Hilal.

Standing at 6'3, there's hope the young defender will be able to hang physically in the Premier League. At the same time, those who have watched Takai closely have labelled him an archetypal modern-day defender. He's slick in the build-up phase and progressive when necessary, but the question is whether he can perform with the consistency that's required to excel in the English top flight.

The defensive fundamentals are sound, and there's plenty to work with, but some might be concerned with a perceived lack of pace.

Nevertheless, Takai won't be expected to contribute heavily right away. Danso and Vuskovic's arrivals have congested the depth chart behind Cristian Romero, whose future remains in doubt, and Spurs will likely sign another centre-half should they part ways with the Argentine.

The 20-year-old is not the big name every supporter craves, but it's a move boasting minimal risk and high upside.