Feyenoord close in on fourth-ever Japanese signing as defensive reinforcements become urgent

Feyenoord are on the verge of signing Japanese international Tsuyoshi Watanabe from Belgian side KAA Gent, with multiple Dutch and Belgian outlets — including De Telegraaf and Het Nieuwsblad — reporting that the two clubs have reached a broad agreement over the transfer.

The 28-year-old centre-back is expected to become just the fourth Japanese player in Feyenoord's history, following in the footsteps of Shinji Ono, Ryo Miyaichi, and current striker Ayase Ueda. The move, however, still hinges on final logistics — most notably the issuance of a work permit, as Watanabe remains a non-EU player.

Feyenoord turn back to Watanabe after earlier setback

Feyenoord were first linked with Watanabe back in April, but talks broke down due to Gent’s high valuation. However, after suffering injuries to key defenders — including Thomas Beelen, who sustained a fracture during a recent friendly — and losing out in their pursuit of Valentín Gómez of Vélez Sarsfield, the Rotterdam-based club reignited negotiations in recent weeks.

With Watanabe now reportedly ready to join up with Feyenoord’s pre-season training camp in southern Germany, the deal is expected to be finalised imminently, pending the resolution of administrative matters.

A reliable presence in Belgium

Watanabe’s European career began in January 2022 when he left FC Tokyo to join KV Kortrijk in Belgium. His consistent performances earned him a move to Gent in the summer of 2023. Since then, he has established himself as a defensive pillar — making over 100 official appearances for the two Belgian clubs, with 48 games, 3 goals, and 2 assists recorded just last season, including in the UEFA Europa Conference League. He was even named Gent’s Player of the Year for the 2023/24 campaign.

In total, Watanabe has featured in 94 league matches in Belgium, scoring 5 goals, and has four senior caps for the Japanese national team.

Timing crucial ahead of World Cup

Watanabe’s move could play a crucial role in his ambitions to earn a spot in Japan’s squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the USA, Mexico, and Canada. A move to one of the Netherlands’ top clubs — and a potential UEFA Champions League campaign — would bolster his international credentials.

Should the deal go through, Watanabe will join a growing number of Japanese players excelling in Europe and add further defensive depth to Arne Slot’s successor’s backline. Feyenoord, having finished second in the Eredivisie last season, will be aiming to strengthen their squad ahead of another demanding domestic and European campaign.

Awaiting official confirmation

While all parties are reportedly aligned on the deal, final confirmation is still pending. As Feyenoord have already departed for their training camp, Watanabe is expected to join them as soon as his work permit is secured. The coming days will be crucial, but all signs point to the Japanese defender making De Kuip his new home.