FC St. Pauli announced on New Year's Day the signing of Japanese defender Tomoya Ando from Japanese top-flight club Avispa Fukuoka, but did not disclose details about the transfer fee or contract duration. According to Coach Alexander Blessin, the 26-year-old centre-back is well-trained, attentive and not limited to one position.

Tomoya Ando has been signed by FC St. Pauli from the Japanese club Avispa Fukuoka. The transfer fee is reported to be very low. The length of the contract has not been disclosed.

The transfer of 26-year-old centre-back Tomoya Ando to FC St. Pauli will be either free or for a very small fee, because his contract with Avispa Fukuoka expires on February 1. All parties have reached an agreement for the Japanese international's move to the Bundesliga club. The deal can be officially announced after the medical check and the player's signature are completed.