Wanderers sign Japan international Takahagi for ACL campaign

Western Sydney Wanderers has signed Sanfrecce Hiroshima and Japanese international midfielder Yojiro Takahagi for its upcoming AFC Champions League campaign.

Yojiro Takahagi was in action for Sanfrecce Hiroshima when it played Western Sydney Wanderers. (Getty)

Takahagi penned a short-term Champions League contract for the Wanderers group stage and potential round of 16 matches.

With over 250 appearances for J-League side Sanfrecce, including winning back-to-back J-League titles in 2012 and 2013, Takahagi is expected to add creativity to the struggling A-League side's front third.

The 28 year-old made his international debut for Japan in 2013, while Wanderers fans may remember him as the player who orchestrated a 3-1 win against Western Sydney in the ACL round of 16 first leg clash.

Wanderers CEO John Tsatsimas was delighted with the capture of the Japanese playmaker.

“We are very pleased to have been able to do this piece of business in the transfer window,” said Tsatsimas.

“Takahagi is a very experienced and talented attacking player who has the versatility to play in a number of positions in the front third.

“We had the opportunity to play against him in the Round of 16 in last year’s Champions League so we know firsthand the player’s ability and attitude on the pitch and we are very excited for him to join the squad.

“With caps for Japan, plenty of ACL experience and at 28 years-old we have found a player that is hungry for more success, something as a club we are all striving for.”

Starting his youth career at Sanfrecce Hiroshima, Takahagi joined the senior ranks and, aside from a one season loan to then J-2 side Enhime FC in 2006, was a consistent first team player who made over 250 appearances for the club.