Journalist Florian Plettenburg from Sky Sports Deutschland reported that Sota Kawasaki's transfer to Mainz is on the verge of completion. Multiple sources have confirmed that negotiations are at an advanced stage, with an agreement in place for a loan deal that includes an option to buy. The German club reportedly plans to use the Japanese player as a mezzala or trequartista, aiming to make the most of his technical abilities and offensive vision. Although the transfer was initially scheduled for January 2026, it is now anticipated to occur this summer, six months earlier than planned, due to interest from other European clubs. Kawasaki remains under contract with Kyoto Sanga until December 2028.