Leeds United are delighted to announce the signing of Ao Tanaka, who joins in a permanent deal from Fortuna Dusseldorf.

The Japanese international has signed a four-year-deal at Elland Road, becoming the club’s seventh signing of the summer transfer window.

Bringing experience from his time playing in the 2. Bundesliga, Tanaka has also played 27 times for his national team.

He represented his country at the 2020 Olympic Games, as well as the 2022 FIFA World Cup, where he scored the winning goal against Spain to send his nation into the knock-out stages of the competition.

The 25-year-old began his career with Kawasaki Frontale in the J1 League, before securing a move to Germany with Fortuna Dusseldorf in June 2021. He initially joined on loan, before making the deal permanent the following year.

A versatile and energetic midfielder, Tanaka can operate across all areas in the middle of the pitch, including both attacking and defensive positions when required to do so.

After amassing close to 100 appearances throughout his time in Dusseldorf, Tanaka also had a keen eye for goal. The 2023/24 campaign was his most productive for club and country, where he scored 13 times in 42 matches across all competitions.

He now makes the move to Elland Road, further strengthening manager Daniel Farke’s midfield options.

Everyone at Leeds United would like to welcome Ao the club and he will wear the number 22 shirt at Elland Road.