Everton sign Japan centre-back Ishikawa

Japan international Rion Ishikawa signs for EvertonImage source, Everton FC
Image caption,

Rion Ishikawa was part of the Japan squad who won the SheBelieves Cup for the first time in February 2025

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Everton have signed Japan centre-back Rion Ishikawa from Urawa Red Diamonds.

The 22-year-old becomes the third player to join the Toffees this summer, after Spain Under-23 winger Ornella Vignola and Dutch midfielder Rosa van Gool.

Ishikawa graduated from the JFA Academy Fukushima in 2022 and represented her country at the Under-20 World Cup in the same year as they finished runners-up.

She joins fellow Japanese international Honoka Hayashi – with whom she won the 2025 SheBelieves Cup.

On signing for Everton, Ishikawa said: "It is an honour to join the club as we enter this new historic chapter.

"Now that Goodison Park is our permanent home, we have to achieve strong results.

"I feel a special connection because I am joining Everton when the club is beginning a new era.

"I believe this league is the best in the world. I am really lucky I can compete in it."

Everton boss Brian Sorensen added: "We are really pleased to have signed a player of Rion's quality.

"She is a perfect match for what we are trying to build at Everton."

Check out all the summer transfer deals on our dedicated page.

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