KAA Gent has sold midfielder Atsuki Ito to English side Bolton Wanderers. The transfer was completed this week for an undisclosed fee, as reported by news.bbc.co.uk.
Ito signed a three-year contract with the newly-promoted Championship club. The 28-year-old Japanese international spent the last two seasons with Gent, making 63 league appearances and scoring six goals. His departure coincides with a strong start to the season for Gent, who currently sit sixth in the Jupiler Pro League with six points from two matches.
What does Ito's departure mean for Gent?
The exit of Atsuki Ito reduces the midfield options for coach Hein Vanhaezebrouck. Ito was a regular fixture with his 63 league outings. His role will now need to be filled by other players in the squad. The club is in a good position in the league, however, with two consecutive wins and a goal difference of +3. They are averaging two goals per game.
The next test for the midfield comes on December 12th, when Gent host STVV. Fans can check the schedule for that match and other upcoming fixtures on our fixtures page. The opponent currently sits twelfth in the table.
Who are Bolton's other summer signings?
Bolton Wanderers have invested heavily in their squad following promotion. Ito is not their only acquisition. The club also signed 24-year-old Republic of Ireland international Gavin Bazunu from Southampton. He also penned a three-year deal. The goalkeeper made 92 appearances for Southampton after joining from Manchester City in 2022.
In total, Bolton have made twelve new signings this summer. To make room, the contract of 33-year-old defender Cyrus Christie was terminated by mutual consent. Christie joined on a free transfer in September 2025 and played 30 games in all competitions for the club.
How is Gent positioned in the league?
Despite losing Ito, Gent are beginning the 2026-2027 season with confidence. The team has two victories and sits in sixth place. They have scored four goals and conceded just one. In the title race, they are three points behind leaders Club Brugge.
A point of concern is the injury to Matisse Samoise, who is currently sidelined. The latest injury news can always be followed on our injuries page. The full squad lineup and statistics are available on the squad overview.
What are the next steps for the club?
Gent's technical staff must now decide if Ito's exit requires an immediate replacement, or if they will rely on existing players. The financial details of the transfer are not public, leaving room for speculation about the available budget. The focus now is on maintaining their good form. The match against STVV on December 12th is the next opportunity to collect points and consolidate their position in the top six. The complete league table can be consulted on our standings page.
