J1 League side expected to land 28-year-old centre-back as Tottenham-bound Takai's replacement

Japanese top-flight side Kawasaki Frontale are reportedly set to sign Croatian international Filip Uremović from Hajduk Split, as they look to shore up their defensive line following the departure of Kodai Takai to Tottenham Hotspur.

The 28-year-old centre-back, who has earned six caps for the Croatian national team, is said to have completed his final training session with Hajduk and bid farewell to his teammates ahead of an imminent move to Japan, according to multiple reports from Croatia including Nogometne Vijesti.

Uremović had offers from both Japan and Saudi Arabia, but ultimately chose the J1 League as his next destination. Reports suggest Kawasaki Frontale will pay a transfer fee in the region of €1.5 million (approx. ¥260 million) to secure his services.

Defensive reshuffle at Kawasaki

Kawasaki have found themselves short at the back in recent weeks. Rising star Kodai Takai, one of the league’s standout young defenders, recently completed a move to Premier League giants Tottenham. Meanwhile, Colombian defender César Haydar has also exited the club, joining Atlético Nacional on loan.

The backline void has prompted swift action in the transfer market, and Uremović appears to be the club’s preferred solution.

From Russia to Germany to Japan

Uremović brings a wealth of experience from European football, having previously played for Rubin Kazan in Russia and Hertha BSC in Germany before joining Hajduk Split in 2023. Last season, he made 37 appearances, scoring 3 goals and providing 1 assist, anchoring the defence for the Croatian club.

His playing style — physical, composed, and tactically disciplined — fits Kawasaki’s ambitions for the remainder of the season, especially as they look to climb from their current 7th place in the J1 standings.

Hajduk braced for key loss

While Hajduk are preparing for the new Croatian league season, the departure of Uremović leaves a significant gap in their defensive structure. Croatian outlets note that Hajduk will now be forced to act quickly in the market to find a replacement.

For Uremović, the move to Japan presents both a new cultural and professional challenge — and a reported doubling of his salary.

Should the deal be finalised as expected, Kawasaki Frontale will have landed a seasoned European defender at the heart of their summer rebuild, as they aim for a strong second half to the campaign and push for AFC Champions League qualification once more.