Key Takeaways:
- Crystal Palace are poised to add Takehiro Tomiyasu to their squad on a free transfer following a successful trial period
- The 27-year-old Japan international has earned 46 caps and previously played for Arsenal in the Premier League
- Head coach Pierre Sage is assessing further signings, including Solly March, Josh Acheampong (loan), and Raphael Le Guen, as part of an ongoing defensive rebuild
Palace Set to Secure Tomiyasu’s Signature
Crystal Palace are on the verge of completing the free signing of Takehiro Tomiyasu, following the defender’s promising trial with the club. The versatile Japan international, who boasts 46 appearances for his country and Premier League experience with Arsenal, is expected to bolster Pierre Sage’s defensive options ahead of the forthcoming season.
🚨🔴🔵 Takehiro Tomiyasu to Crystal Palace, here we go! Medical passed in London and contract to be signed in next 48h.
Japanese defender joins #CPFC as free agent after leaving Ajax in the summer. 🇯🇵 pic.twitter.com/GQLeDlXJsK
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) August 5, 2026
Sage Targets Defensive Flexibility
A broad agreement regarding personal terms has seemingly been reached, with final approval left to head coach Pierre Sage. The 27-year-old is tipped as a candidate to feature on the left side of a three-man backline, which Sage is believed to be planning for the upcoming campaign. However, given Tomiyasu’s recent struggles with knee injuries, Palace are keen to conduct thorough fitness assessments before advancing the deal.
Squad Restructuring and Additional Reinforcements
Tomiyasu’s anticipated arrival forms part of a substantial defensive rebuild at Selhurst Park, following Maxence Lacroix’ move to Chelsea earlier in the transfer window. The Eagles are also evaluating further reinforcements. Solly March, aged 32 and recently released by Brighton, has been recommended and is under consideration. Meanwhile, Palace are expressing interest in securing a loan deal for Chelsea’s Josh Acheampong and are monitoring Brest centre-back Raphael Le Guen.
Looking Ahead in the Transfer Window
With the transfer window remaining open until month’s end, Tomiyasu is likely to be the club’s first new addition under Pierre Sage. Further movements for targets such as March, Acheampong, and Le Guen are expected to follow, as Palace works to reshape their defensive line in anticipation of the new Premier League campaign.
