Crystal Palace are currently the frontrunners to sign Takehiro Tomiyasu, with manager Pierre Sarge considered to be a big fan of the former Arsenal defender.
Tomiyasu already has Premier League experience, spending four years with the Gunners, where he showed his versatility by playing in a back three.
The Japan international could be called up as a replacement for Maxence Lacroix as he looks to secure a move to Chelsea, but during his time in north London he was mostly used as a right-back or left-back.
The 27-year-old was hailed as “first-rate” by Mikel Arteta, scoring two goals and providing six assists in 84 appearances for the Gunners before signing for Ajax. However, he only appeared in seven matches in the Eredivisie last season, playing a total of 205 minutes.
So, while there may be concerns about the defender not playing games last season, the fact that he knows the demands of English football is a plus, and as he can be acquired on a free transfer, the deal is low risk.
Crystal Palace are at the top of the race to sign Takehiro Tomiyasu
According to a report from TEAMtalk, Crystal Palace are currently in pole position to sign Tomiyasu, with Sage a big fan of the defender given his versatility and experience.
Liverpool, Everton, Newcastle United and Sunderland have also been named as potential suitors for the former Arsenal player, but he is keen to remain in London, where he has been based since leaving the Gunners in 2025.
The Eagles’ Europa Conference League win also worked in their favor, with them playing in the Europa League next season, making a move to Selhurst Park an attractive proposition.
Why Crystal Palace should sign Takehiro Tomiyasu | |
|---|---|
Maxence Lacroix’s departure approaches | With Lacroix set to sign for Chelsea, Palace are unlikely to be thinking too much about their options at the back, especially considering Mar Guehi joined Manchester City in January. As such, Sage will only need to sign a new defender, with Tomiyasu already proving himself in the Premier League. |
Versatility and European experience | Additionally, the former Ajax player can also play at full-back, allowing him to fill in for Tyrik Mitchell or Daniel Muñoz if needed. Signing a player with European experience could also be important, as Palace are set to embark on a Europa League campaign next season, with the player already having played in the competition and the Champions League. |
low risk trading | Tomiyasu can be acquired on a free transfer, meaning that even if the move doesn’t go through, the only money Palace will lose is money spent on wages. |
A left-field option to replace Lacroix is also in the picture, with Palace agreeing to sign Raphael Le Guen on personal terms after overtaking Fulham in the race to sign him.
However, the Stade Brest defender is only 19 years old and has no Premier League experience, suggesting Tomiyasu may be able to make a more immediate impact.
