Ex-Arsenal Star Tomiyasu Eyes Serie A Return as Free Agent Target for Sassuolo and Venezia

FolioPitch.com – 16 July 2026 | Former Arsenal, Ajax and Bologna defender Takehiro Tomiyasu is once again the subject of transfer speculation as Ex-Arsenal man Tomiyasu targeted as free agent by Sassuolo and Venezia. The versatile Japan international, now 27, is a free agent after his contract with Ajax expired following a season cut short by a serious knee injury. According to reports from Tuttomercatoweb, both Serie B side Sassuolo and newly-promoted Venezia have entered negotiations with his representatives to bring him back to Italy.

Tomiyasu first made a name for himself in Serie A with Bologna between 2019 and 2021, accumulating 61 appearances, three goals and three assists. His consistent performances earned him an €18.6 million move to Arsenal in 2021. However, his time in the Premier League was hampered by fitness issues, and he eventually left the Gunners on a free transfer to Ajax last summer. The Dutch stint was also plagued by injury, as Tomiyasu suffered a severe knee problem in July 2024 that sidelined him until October 2025.

Despite the lengthy layoff, the defender managed to recover in time for the 2026 World Cup, where he represented Japan as a key player. Now fully fit, he is attracting interest from Italian clubs eager to secure his services without a transfer fee. The latest development sees Ex-Arsenal man Tomiyasu targeted as free agent by Sassuolo and Venezia, both of whom are looking to strengthen their defensive options.

Sassuolo, currently competing in Serie B after relegation from the top flight, view Tomiyasu as an experienced addition who can help them push for promotion. Venezia, on the other hand, have a more urgent need after discovering that defender Marin Sverko requires surgery that could keep him out for several months. The promotion winners from Serie B are keen to bolster their backline for their return to Serie A, and Tomiyasu’s ability to play as a central defender, right-back or left-back makes him an attractive proposition.

“Tomiyasu knows the league well and is still only 27,” a source close to the negotiations told Football Italia. “He has proven he can perform at a high level, and given his free agent status, this is a low-risk move for any club.” The possibility of a Serie A return has already been discussed, with the player’s entourage exploring options across Italy.

The Ex-Arsenal man Tomiyasu targeted as free agent by Sassuolo and Venezia storyline underscores his market value despite recent setbacks. His previous stint in Italy was highly regarded, and both clubs believe he can rediscover that form. While Sassuolo may not be able to offer top-tier football immediately, Venezia can tempt him with a return to Serie A action—a crucial factor for a player still ambitious enough to feature for Japan in the upcoming Asian Cup qualifiers.

As the transfer window progresses, Tomiyasu’s camp is expected to make a decision soon. With his fitness no longer a concern and his experience at the highest level, he represents a significant coup for whichever club secures his signature. For now, the race is between Sassuolo and Venezia, but other suitors could emerge if the negotiations stall. The Ex-Arsenal man Tomiyasu targeted as free agent by Sassuolo and Venezia saga adds an intriguing subplot to the Italian transfer market this summer.

In conclusion, Takehiro Tomiyasu’s journey from Arsenal to Ajax and potential return to Italy highlights the unpredictable nature of football careers. The move would also provide him with regular game time essential for maintaining his spot in the Japan national setup. While the knee injury was a major setback, Tomiyasu’s resilience and proven talent make him a valuable asset. Sassuolo and Venezia are both formidable options, but the ultimate choice may hinge on which club can offer him the best platform to reignite his career. Fans in Serie A will be watching closely as the negotiations unfold.