Crystal Palace have confirmed the arrival of Japan international Takehiro Tomiyasu on what is reportedly a free transfer.
Key takeaways
- Tomiyasu becomes Palace’s second summer recruit under manager Pierre Sage.
- The 27-year-old can operate in both full-back and central-defensive roles.
- He spent the latter part of last season with Ajax in the Netherlands.
- The defender has collected 46 caps for Japan and was included in their 2026 World Cup squad.
- Palace have lifted the FA Cup, Community Shield and UEFA Conference League during the past two seasons.
Tomiyasu joins Palace
The former Arsenal defender follows Oscar Mingueza through the door at the south London club, with the Spanish defender having already become Sage’s first addition of the summer transfer window.
Tomiyasu offers versatility at the back, with the ability to line up on either flank or in the centre of defence. After leaving Arsenal, he played for Dutch powerhouse Ajax during the second half of the previous campaign.
Now 27, Tomiyasu has represented Japan 46 times and formed part of the country’s squad for the 2026 World Cup.
A successful period for Palace
Palace have enjoyed an exceptional two-year period. Under their previous manager, Oliver Glasner, they secured the FA Cup, the Community Shield and the UEFA Conference League.
“I cannot wait to begin,” Tomiyasu said. “The club is enjoying an excellent period after winning three trophies in two seasons, and this is exactly where I wanted to be.”
Chairman Steve Parish welcomed the signing, highlighting Tomiyasu’s background in top-level European and international football. “He brings experience from the highest level, and we are thrilled to have a player of his quality joining Palace,” Parish said.
