Japanese striker Takaoka leaves Southampton on loan

Southampton's Japan youth international striker Rento Takaoka joins French side Valenciennes on a season-long loan.

Rento Takaoka in action.
Rento Takaoka has yet to playa first team game for Southampton [Getty Images]

Southampton's Japan youth international striker Rento Takaoka has joined French side Valenciennes on a season-long loan.

The 18-year-old moves to the French third-tier having yet to make a first team, appearance for Saints.

He moved to the south coast in March after turning 18, having impressed at the 2023 Under-17 World Cup.

He is the fifth player to leave St Mary's on loan this summer.

Category: General Sports