The growing presence reflects increasing confidence among English clubs in Japanese talent, with players attracting interest for their quality, value for money and relatively low risk of adaptation.

Among the most notable arrivals is goalkeeper Zion Suzuki, who has joined Aston Villa from Italian club Parma. Former Arsenal defender Takehiro Tomiyasu has returned to London with Crystal Palace, while midfielder Hidemasa Morita has moved to Hull City and Daizen Maeda has joined Ipswich Town from Scottish club Celtic.

They join established Premier League players, including Brighton winger Kaoru Mitoma, Liverpool midfielder Wataru Endo and Crystal Palace midfielder Daichi Kamada.

The league also includes Ao Tanaka of Leeds, Kota Takai of Tottenham, and Tatsuhiro Sakamoto of Coventry.

FIFA-licensed agent Joel Baniak said English clubs now have greater confidence that signing Japanese players is a positive move, citing their strong record of adapting, disciplining and integrating.

Suzuki, 24, could become the first Japanese goalkeeper to play in the Premier League if he makes his debut for Aston Villa.