Southampton sign Japanese defender Yukinari Sugawara from AZ Alkmaar

Premier League side Southampton have officially announced the signing of Japan international Yukinari Sugawara on a permanent deal from AZ Alkmaar. The 24-year-old right-back moves to England following five successful seasons in the Eredivisie. Now he’s put pen to paper on a four-year contract at St Mary’s, valid until the summer of 2028.

Yukinari Sugawara kicked off his proffesional career in his home country with J.League outfit Nagoya Grampus. The 13-time Japan international moved to AZ in 2019, initially joining on loan before signing permanently for around €1.8m the following year. During his stay in the Netherlands he featured nearly 200 times for AZ, scoring 14 goals and providing 29 assists, predominantly playing as a right-back but with the ability to play on the wing.

Southampton have beaten several sides to Sugawara‘s signature. The defender’s speed, excellent ability at defending one-v-one duels and eye to push-up the pitch will be pivotal as the club aim for a successful season back in the top flight.

GBeNeFN | Jonas Fielding