Rento Takaoka ‘to join’ Patro Eisden Maasmechelen in permanent switch from Southampton | OneFootball

Southampton are poised to lose high-profile academy recruit Rento Takaoka, with the 19-year-old Japan youth forward closing on a permanent move to Belgian second-tier side Patro Eisden Maasmechelen.

According to Sainstmarching.com, he agreed a pre-contract in June 2024 and was registered fully after turning 18. He arrived from Japanese high school football and departs without a first-team appearance.

He joined Valenciennes last August, then under the same Sport Republic ownership as Southampton, on a season-long loan seen as a key step. A foot stress fracture cut it short and he returned by spring. The report notes 16 outings, three goals and 549 minutes, with only three starts and spells in the reserves.

Last summer the report mapped a two-year pathway for Japanese teenagers, built on patient loans and steady senior minutes. A departure after one injury-hit campaign jars with that plan.

There is logic the other way, as Takaoka needs to play. A Challenger Pro League side who finished sixth last term could offer a clearer route to regular football than a crowded Southampton attack.

His talent has been evident for Japan, with all four group-stage goals at the 2023 Under 17 World Cup and a vital Asian Under 20 Cup equaliser.

Verdict 2/5 and likelihood 3/5, framing this as a low-cost punt for Patro Eisden. No established transfer reporter has backed it publicly and the fee and terms remain unconfirmed.

Source: Sainstmarching.com