Palace sign defender Tomiyasu after pre-season trial

Crystal Palace have signed Japan defender Takehiro Tomiyasu after a successful pre-season trial. The 27-year-old, a free agent after his time at Ajax, was part of Japan's World Cup squad this summer. Tomiyasu, who can play at full-back or centre-back, becomes the second signing for new manager Pierre Sage, following Oscar Mingueza's arrival.

The Eagles have not disclosed the length of Tomiyasu's contract. Palace aimed to bolster their defensive options, as their first-choice centre-back Maxence Lacroix joined Chelsea. The club's chairman, Steve Parish, praised Tomiyasu's experience at the highest level of European and international football. French coach Sage, who succeeded Olivier Glasner, highlighted the club's recent success, including the FA Cup, Conference League, and Community Shield.

Tomiyasu expressed his excitement about joining a club in a positive period. The Eagles are also exploring a potential loan deal for Chelsea defender Josh Acheampong and have shown interest in Brest centre-back Raphael le Guen. The transfer window could see Palace selling squad members to generate funds, with BBC Sport reporting interest in Brennan Johnson.