Crystal Palace have held discussions with Takehiro Tomiyasu over a permanent contract that would see the versatile Japan international return to the Premier League on a free transfer, the club and sources have confirmed.
Palace eye experienced cover as defensive overhaul looms
Tomiyasu, 27, has been training with Palace during pre-season and was included among the substitutes for the friendly against Lens, a clear indication that talks have progressed beyond preliminary enquiries. Insiders say there is a broad agreement on terms in principle, though any final decision will rest with head coach Pierre Sage and further medical assurances over the defender's fitness.
The proposition is straightforward: Palace want to bolster their backline ahead of a season in which Sage plans to deploy a system using three central defenders. Club sources view Tomiyasu as a candidate to occupy the left-hand slot of that central trio, bringing experience and adaptability after time in the English top flight.
Those plans come as Palace seek to replace players moving on. First-choice centre-back Maxence Lacroix is expected to join Chelsea, leaving a gap that the Eagles are actively attempting to fill. The south London club have already made an offer for Chrislain Matsima from Augsburg, with talks ongoing over a deal reported at €30m (£25.7m).
- Player training with Palace: Takehiro Tomiyasu (27)
- Recent club before talks: Ajax — Tomiyasu made 8 appearances toward the end of last season
- Other defensive targets: Chrislain Matsima (Augsburg), Josh Acheampong (Chelsea, loan interest), Raphael le Guen (Brest)
Fitness concerns and form: why Palace are cautious
Tomiyasu’s recent campaigns have been affected by knee problems, a factor Palace are taking seriously before committing to a free signing. The club are convinced by his quality and versatility — he has experience across defence at a high level — but medical checks will be central to progressing from verbal agreement to a signed contract.
After mutually parting ways with Arsenal last season, Tomiyasu moved to Ajax where he featured late in their campaign. The eight appearances for the Dutch side gave him some game time to show his readiness, but Palace want certainty over any lingering issues before making the move permanent.
The potential deal represents a low-cost option for Palace as they juggle squad balance and budgetary priorities. Adding Tomiyasu on a free would provide immediate cover and experience without the transfer fee outlay associated with other targets.
Broader summer window context
The Eagles are busy across the market. Alongside their push for Matsima, they have explored a loan for Chelsea youngster Josh Acheampong, though Stamford Bridge have not yet signalled willingness to sanction that move. Palace have also been linked with Brest’s centre-back Raphael le Guen, indicating a clear intention to refresh central defence options.
For Palace, recruitment this summer must reconcile tactical plans with player availability and medical prudence. A move for Tomiyasu would be a pragmatic step: an experienced operator who could slot into Sage’s back three while the club finalise deals that may include substantial fees.
| Player | Current/Reported status | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Takehiro Tomiyasu | Training with Crystal Palace; talks over free transfer | 27; eight appearances for Ajax last season; recent knee issues |
| Chrislain Matsima | Augsburg; Palace offer ongoing | Reported fee €30m (£25.7m) |
| Josh Acheampong | Chelsea; loan interest | 20; no indication Chelsea will allow exit yet |
| Maxence Lacroix | Expected to join Chelsea | First-choice centre-back for Palace |
With pre-season fixtures underway and the transfer window moving quickly, Palace supporters will watch medical bulletins as closely as the final whistle. If a deal for Tomiyasu is concluded, it will be judged not just on pedigree but on whether he can consistently pass the fitness tests that have hampered his recent seasons.
Whether the signing comes to fruition or Palace press on for a summer purchase, the message from Selhurst Park is clear: the defensive unit will look different when the season begins.
