FC Tokyo announced in a brief statement that Sato has been left out of their pre-season preparations due to an imminent transfer, with the details to be confirmed once resolved. The operation is understood to be worth around €4m and is pending only the medical and contract signing.
Sato is one of the most promising young players in Japanese football. He has already earned senior international caps having debuted for Japan in 2025 after progressing through the national youth setup, though he was not included in Japan's World Cup 2026 squad. Feyenoord joined the race for his signature before Valencia moved ahead.
The youngster's profile includes experience on loan at Fagiano Okayama, where he made 28 appearances and scored six goals, before returning to FC Tokyo, where he added six more goals and an assist in 19 games. In the Asian Under-23 Championship of 2026, he scored four goals as Japan won the title.
His versatility across the front line — primarily as a number 10 or interior midfielder, though capable of playing wide — and his qualities in one-on-one situations have attracted Valencia's attention as they seek players who can develop alongside the squad.
On the defensive side, Valencia are interested in Joan Martínez, an 18-year-old centre-back in Real Madrid's academy who suffered a serious injury during pre-season in 2024. Madrid view him as a significant prospect, which has led them to handle his recovery carefully.
Interest from Valencia has now emerged, with the Bernabéu club potentially open to allowing him to gain experience on loan in LaLiga next season.