Palace Secure Tomiyasu Following Trial

Crystal Palace have completed the signing of Japan defender Takehiro Tomiyasu after a successful pre-season trial. The 27-year-old, who was without a club, has agreed terms with the Eagles and will bolster their defensive options ahead of the new campaign.

Background: A Defender With International Pedigree

Tomiyasu brings a wealth of experience to Selhurst Park. He has earned over 40 caps for Japan, featuring prominently in international competitions. His versatility allows him to operate as a right-back or centre-back, a trait that will be valuable to Palace manager Oliver Glasner.

Having previously played in Italy before joining Arsenal in 2021, Tomiyasu spent three seasons in the Premier League. During that period, he made over 80 appearances for the north London club, contributing to a solid defensive record. However, injuries limited his game time in his final two seasons, leading to his release this summer.

Tactical Analysis: How Tomiyasu Fits In

Palace are known for their organised defensive structure under Glasner. Tomiyasu's arrival provides competition for the likes of Joel Ward and Daniel MuΓ±oz at right-back. His ability to tuck into a back three when in possession could offer Palace a different dimension in build-up play.

His experience in a high-pressing system at Arsenal aligns with Palace's approach, which looks to press aggressively and win the ball high up the pitch. Furthermore, his aerial presence in both boxes will be an asset on set pieces, where Palace have historically been formidable. In the 2023-24 season, they scored 13 goals from dead-ball situations, the fourth-highest tally in the league.

Impact on the Squad and Fantasy Football

Tomiyasu's signing adds depth and quality to a Palace side that finished 14th last season. His arrival may allow Glasner to rotate his defensive options without a significant drop in quality. With the Europa League commitments not a factor this year, Palace can focus on climbing the table.

From a Fantasy Premier League perspective, Tomiyasu is unlikely to be a popular pick initially. Priced at Β£4.5m, he offers a budget route into a defence that kept 10 clean sheets last season. Given his injury record, managers may look elsewhere, but his versatility and potential to be deployed as a wing-back could yield attacking returns. Palace's favourable early fixtures, including home games against newly-promoted sides, might tempt some FPL managers.

  • Defensive solidity: Tomiyasu's presence should reduce the reliance on Ward and MuΓ±oz, providing more rest and freshness.
  • Cover for injuries: Over the past two seasons, Palace have suffered several defensive injuries; Tomiyasu's arrival mitigates that risk.
  • Replacement for departed players: With the exit of the likes of James Tomkins, Tomiyasu fills a void in the squad.

What's Next for Palace and Tomiyasu?

Tomiyasu will join his new teammates for pre-season training, aiming to prove his fitness ahead of the opening fixture against Manchester United. If he can stay clear of injuries, he has the quality to become a mainstay in the Palace defence. For Palace, this signing signals intent to compete in the upper half of the table, with further incomings expected before the transfer window closes.

Filed under: Transfer News | LA Premier League Home