The Athletic confirm former Arsenal defender Takehiro Tomiyasu is set for Premier League return this summer
Free agents recovering from long-term injury often use temporary training arrangements to regain fitness while assessing their options. Clubs providing high-level environments can benefit from the presence of experienced professionals. Interest from the Premier League remains strong for players with proven quality at the top level.
Defenders who have previously succeeded in England frequently look to return after spells abroad. Mutual contract terminations and short-term deals abroad can leave players available at the right moment. Pre-season camps offer an ideal setting for both parties to evaluate a potential fit.
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Former Arsenal defender Takehiro Tomiyasu is training with Crystal Palace with a view to a possible move this summer. The 27-year-old Japan international is a free agent after leaving Ajax at the end of his short-term contract and is currently working with the Eagles in Como as part of their pre-season preparations.
It is possible Takehiro Tomiyasu will feature in a friendly for Palace later this week. The versatile defender has attracted interest from elsewhere in England and Europe but is interested in returning to the Premier League. Palace are providing a high-level training environment while he maintains and improves his fitness.
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🚨Former Arsenal player Takehiro Tomiyasu could be set for a Premier League return.
The defender is training with Crystal Palace with a view to a possible move this summer.
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Takehiro Tomiyasu left Arsenal in July 2025 after a mutual agreement to terminate his contract one year early. He had not featured since October 2024 and underwent knee surgery in February 2025. During his time in north London he made 84 appearances, scoring two goals and providing six assists, though his final seasons were disrupted by injury.
He joined Ajax on a six-month deal in December and made nine appearances in the second half of last season. Tomiyasu earned a recall to the Japan squad for the World Cup and played three times before their exit to Brazil. Palace are currently competing in the Como Cup in Italy and are also seeking defensive reinforcements after the expected departure of Maxence Lacroix.
Arsenal supporters will wish the former Gunner well as he works towards a new chapter. A return to the Premier League would represent a positive step after a difficult period with injuries. Further updates on whether the Palace arrangement develops into a permanent move are expected in the coming days.
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Takehiro Tomiyasu