Crystal Palace are currently the frontrunners to sign Takehiro Tomiyasu, the Japan international defender who is available on a free transfer after leaving Ajax in June, TEAMtalk understands. The 27-year-old has been training with Pierre Sage’s squad in Italy as he searches for a new club, with Liverpool and Everton also expressing interest.
Sources have confirmed to TEAMtalk that Palace have taken the lead in negotiations by inviting Tomiyasu to participate in their pre-season preparations, allowing the club to closely evaluate him. He was named on the bench for Palace’s 3-0 defeat to RC Lens in the Como Cup on Tuesday.
Tomiyasu previously played in the Premier League for Arsenal, remaining based in London after the end of his spell there. His priority is reportedly to continue playing in the English top flight, with a return to a London-based club being particularly appealing, though he has received offers from clubs across Europe.
Palace have moved swiftly in their pursuit, and the fact that Tomiyasu is already integrated with the first-team squad is believed to have significantly strengthened their position. Head coach Pierre Sage is reportedly a strong admirer of the defender’s versatility and experience, qualities that would be valuable to the Eagles’ squad.
The club’s qualification for the Conference League is also seen as a draw for Tomiyasu, offering the prospect of European football alongside remaining in London. Intermediaries have informed several other Premier League clubs, including Liverpool, Everton, Newcastle United, and Sunderland, of Tomiyasu’s availability, but Palace’s negotiations are the most advanced.
Palace believe Tomiyasu’s ability to play at both full-back and centre-back would make him a valuable addition to Sage’s squad. His four years of experience in the Premier League are also expected to ensure a swift adaptation back into English football. The Eagles are continuing to strengthen their squad ahead of the new season, and Tomiyasu appears increasingly likely to remain in London.
