Takehiro Tomiyasu (foto: Getty Images)
Former Arsenal defender Takehiro Tomiyasu is expected to join Crystal Palace as a free agent after impressing during a trial spell.
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Takehiro Tomiyasu is on the verge of making a surprise return to the Premier League, with Crystal Palace expected to complete the signing of the Japanese international within the next 48 hours.
The 27-year-old defender is due to undergo a medical in London before signing his contract with the Eagles as a free agent.
A fresh start after difficult spell
Tomiyasu left Arsenal last year before joining Ajax in an attempt to revive his career.
However, his time in Amsterdam was once again disrupted by injuries, limiting him to just seven Eredivisie appearances before he became available on a free transfer this summer.
Since leaving Ajax, the Japan international has been searching for the right opportunity to restart his career.
Trial convinced Palace
Crystal Palace invited Tomiyasu to train with the first team so the club could assess both his fitness and physical condition.
The experienced defender reportedly impressed head coach Pierre Sage, convincing Palace's coaching staff that he was ready for another opportunity in England.
The club has now decided to move forward with a permanent deal.
Versatility remains his biggest strength
Tomiyasu is capable of playing at right-back, left-back and centre-back, making him an attractive option for Palace's defensive rotation.
He spent four seasons at Arsenal after arriving from Bologna in 2021, earning praise from supporters for his reliability, tactical intelligence and ability to cover multiple positions.
Unfortunately, recurring injuries prevented him from establishing himself as a regular starter during the latter part of his spell at the Emirates.
Official announcement expected soon
Crystal Palace are expected to complete the remaining paperwork after Tomiyasu's medical, with an official announcement likely once the contract has been signed.
If everything goes according to plan, the Japanese international will receive another opportunity to prove himself in the Premier League and strengthen Pierre Sage's squad ahead of the new campaign.