14/01/2026

Volleyball transfers 2026: PlusLiga strengthened – Ishikawa, Takahashi and Romanò in focus

PlusLiga confirms its position in the transfer market

The transfer market in international volleyball is in full swing, and the PlusLiga in Poland is increasingly emerging as one of Europe's most attractive leagues. Several high-profile players have already signed contracts, and new star names are on the way, further strengthening the league's sporting level and international interest.

Japanese national team star Ran Takahashi has signed for Bogdanka LUK Lublin, a move that has generated a lot of attention in Poland, Japan and the rest of volleyball Europe. The signing confirms Lublin's ambitions to remain one of the top teams in the PlusLiga and compete internationally.

Meanwhile, Italian international Yuri Romanò is ready for Poland after signing a two-year contract with PGE Projekt Warszawa. The transfer gives the capital club increased offensive quality and strengthens the team's position in the fight for medals and European Cup games.

There are also important moves happening at home. According to several sources, Polish national team player Tomasz Fornal has committed to Aluron CMC Warta Zawiercie through a long-term three-year contract, a clear signal of the club's long-term sporting commitment.

Ishikawa could leave Perugia – Milan favourite

In parallel with the developments in Poland, the situation surrounding Yuki Ishikawa is being closely monitored. The Japanese national team captain could leave Sir Sicoma Monini Perugia after the season, and transfer rumors have already set the market on fire.

Powervolley Milano is being identified as the strongest candidate to sign the experienced winger. Milan head coach Roberto Piazza has a good relationship with Ishikawa from previous collaborations, and according to Italian media, the player himself is positive about a return to the club.

Interest also extends to Japan, where Suntory Sunbirds Osaka is closely following developments. The club will lose Ran Takahashi after the season and see Ishikawa as a potential replacement and new attraction. However, Ishikawa's clear priority is to continue his career in Europe. He would prefer to stay in the Italian SuperLega until the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.

Modena Volley has also been mentioned as a possible destination, but this option is currently considered less realistic than Milan.

PlusLiga challenges Europe's biggest leagues

There is often talk of Japanese dominance and the financial strength of big Turkish clubs in the transfer market. Nevertheless, the PlusLiga clubs are showing that they are fully capable of competing for the biggest names. With signings like Takahashi, Romanò and Fornal, the quality of the league is significantly strengthened, and Polish volleyball is consolidating its position as a key player in European club volleyball.

With the transfer window in full swing and several profiles in play, everything is set for a season that will attract both new spectators and increased international attention to volleyball in Poland and Europe.

Source: Jakub Balcerzak @Jakub110Jakub

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