Crystal Palace have held talks with Takehiro Tomiyasu over a permanent move to South London. The 27-year-old has been training with Palace and was named as a substitute in the defeat against Lens during the Como Cup on Tuesday 28 July. 

The Japan international could be joining Palace on a free transfer if Pierre Sage decides to sign the defender. Sage will be looking to ensure Tomiyasu’s fitness, as his recent career has been stalling due to recurring knee issues. 

Tomiyasu left Arsenal at the end of last season by mutual agreement, joining Ajax where he made eight appearances towards the end of the season before being released. He last played in the Premier League in October 2024, before undergoing surgery early 2025. 

Despite his difficult spell of injuries, the 27-year-old travelled to the FIFA World Cup with Japan, taking part in three matches as they reached the last 16 in the tournament.

Tomiyasu is likely attracted to Palace due to fellow Japanese teammate Daichi Kamada, who signed a contract extension this summer. He would also be reunited with former Arsenal teammate Eddie Nketiah.

With the exit of Maxence Lacroix imminent, Sage will be hoping for defensive reinforcements. The signing of Oscar Mingueza was positive for Palace, however he is yet to feature in pre-season matches, leaving fans speculating that he may be injured.

Tomiyasu is versatile across the back, playing predominately in the right-sided centre-back role, but also able to play as a wing back. He also comes with proven Premier League experience, and could slot into however Sage chooses to line up.

He is very comfortable with defending wider areas, which could become useful if Sage continues with Palace’s recent three at the back formation. He plays a different style of defending to Lacroix, focusing on stability on the ball and in position rather than trying to keep moving forwards on the attack.

However, Tomiyasu’s injury history is something Sage should be taking his time to consider, as he has not played regular minutes since the beginning of the 2024/25 season. During his time at Arsenal Tomiyasu did struggle and seem out of his depth with high speed passing. 

Palace could benefit from the experience and squad depth if signing him on a free transfer, especially after Nathaniel Clyne, who was one of the main defensive substitutes this season, confirmed his departure from South London yesterday.