Transfers
JEF United, K League clubs Busan IPark and Hwaseong FC and Emirati side Kalba Football Club were also active in the transfer market, completing additions ahead of their respective domestic campaigns.
Takahashi takes on Kobe challenge
Takahashi joined Kobe on a permanent transfer after spending most of his professional career with JEF United. He will link up with new additions Anderson Lopes and Kota Watanabe.
The 28-year-old began his senior career with JEF in 2017 and, following loan spells with Renofa Yamaguchi and Montedio Yamagata, returned to establish himself as a regular for the Chiba-based side.
Takahashi made 200 J2 League appearances, scoring 12 goals and was named among the division’s outstanding players in 2025. The former Japan youth international can operate in midfield and at right-back.
“It is a great honour to compete as part of the J.League champions,” said Takahashi. “I will embrace this challenging environment and continue working hard with strong determination.”
JEF bring in Matheus Indio
JEF responded to Takahashi’s departure by adding Brazilian midfielder Matheus Indio to their squad.
The 26-year-old arrives from Atletico Goianiense and will wear the No.25 shirt.
Matheus has previously played for Sao Caetano, Trofense, Vitoria Guimaraes, Vojvodina and Chinese club Qingdao West Coast, giving him experience across several different leagues.
“There is no compromise in my dictionary,” Matheus said as he promised to play with passion and give everything for the club. “I will always fight beyond my limits for this club.”
Lacerda bolsters Kawasaki attack
Kawasaki completed the permanent signing of Lacerda from Brazilian side Cuiabá, handing the 26-year-old forward the No.97 shirt.
Standing at 191cm, Lacerda adds a physical presence to Kawasaki’s forward line after previously playing in Portugal, Spain, Brazil and Russia.
His former clubs include Académica, Moreirense, Ponferradina and Sport Recife, while he most recently spent time with Baltika Kaliningrad.
“I am happy to have joined a club with such a wonderful environment,” Lacerda said. “I’m looking forward to meeting everyone and fighting together.”
Busan and Hwaseong exchange full-backs
In Korea Republic, Busan IPark signed defender Jo Dong-jae on loan from Hwaseong FC.
The 23-year-old can play at left-back or on the left side of a three-man defence, with his pace, work rate and defensive versatility expected to strengthen Busan’s options.
Choi Ye-hoon moved in the opposite direction, joining Hwaseong on loan from Busan.
The 22-year-old has represented Korea Republic at several youth levels and was part of the squad that reached the semi-finals of the FIFA U-20 World Cup 2023.
Capable of operating at left-back or further forward, Choi is known for his left-footed delivery, overlapping runs and ability to contribute at both ends of the pitch.
Neto makes Kalba switch
In the United Arab Emirates, Kalba signed Brazilian midfielder Antonio Neto from UAE Pro League rivals Al Bataeh on a three-year contract.
Neto becomes another addition to Kalba’s squad as the club continue preparations for the new season.
The midfielder’s familiarity with the UAE league should allow him to settle quickly as Kalba seek to improve their domestic campaign.
Photo: AFP
