Daiki Hashioka: Japan full-back from Sint-Truiden signs with Luton Town for unknown fee

Daiki Hashioka, a full-back from Japan, has joined Luton Town from Belgian club Sint-Truiden for an unknown price.

The 24-year-old signs with the Hatters, becoming the team’s first Japanese player.

Hashioka has made 18 appearances for Sint-Truiden this season, tallying two goals and two assists.

“Playing in the Premier League has always been my goal. He exclaimed, “I’m thrilled to be joining and I can’t wait to play as soon as possible.”

“I enjoy sprinting a lot and am good at heading in one-on-one scenarios. This season, I’ve only scored twice, but I want to score more.”

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After clearing his medical with Luton, Hashioka—who had been connected to Championship team Leeds—is scheduled to be introduced to the public on Tuesday before the Luton team plays Brighton in the Premier League at Kenilworth Road.

“Hashi is a versatile defender who can play anywhere along the backline, and having met him I know he’s going to fit into the group really, really well,” Rob Edwards, the manager of Luton, said.

He truly wants to play for Luton and has a fantastic mentality. He is aware that we have a strong team and that he must work hard to earn his chance. He truly looks forward to the challenge of being here, therefore he will.

He is an aggressive person who enjoys being in control and who wants to defend. It pleases me that he is here.”

Hashioka began his professional career with Urawa Red Diamonds, his native club. He played in the Japanese top division for 74 games before being sent on a successful loan to Sint-Truiden, where he was eventually made permanent in 2022.