Crystal Palace have entered into discussions with Takehiro Tomiyasu regarding a permanent move to the club on a free transfer basis. The 27-year-old Japanese defender is currently training with the Eagles and appeared on the substitute bench during a pre-season friendly against Lens earlier this week.
According to reports, a broad agreement on contractual terms has been reached between the two parties, contingent upon head coach Pierre Sage deciding to proceed with the signing. Sage is planning to employ a three-defender formation in the upcoming season, with Tomiyasu potentially positioned on the left side of that defensive arrangement should the deal be completed. The defender is regarded as a versatile option capable of playing multiple positions across the backline.
Tomiyasu’s recent career has been interrupted by recurring knee injuries, which has led Palace to exercise caution regarding his fitness before finalizing any agreement. The defender departed Arsenal by mutual consent at the conclusion of the previous campaign before joining Ajax, where he made eight appearances during the final stages of their season.
This move comes as Palace seek to bolster their defensive resources following the expected departure of first-choice centre-back Maxence Lacroix to Chelsea. The club is pursuing multiple defensive reinforcements this summer, including an ongoing 30m euro negotiation with Augsburg for centre-back Chrislain Matsima. Palace are also exploring a potential loan arrangement for Chelsea defender Josh Acheampong, though the Stamford Bridge club have not yet indicated willingness to allow the 20-year-old’s departure. Additionally, the Eagles have expressed strong interest in Brest centre-back Raphael le Guen.
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