Ex-Arsenal favourite seals Premier League return

Crystal Palace has secured the signing of former Arsenal defender Takehiro Tomiyasu, bringing the versatile Japan international back to the Premier League following months of uncertainty over his future. The 27-year-old ended his four-year stint at Emirates Stadium in July 2025, mutually agreeing to terminate his contract with the Gunners despite a year remaining on his deal.

Tomiyasu's departure from Arsenal marked the end of a promising but injury-plagued four-year spell, during which he made 84 appearances in all competitions and was a dependable right-back, left-back, and centre-back for the north London club. Initially, Ajax seemed to offer Tomiyasu a fresh start, but recurring injuries again derailed his progress.

After a successful trial, Crystal Palace signed him, with the club chairman Steve Parish expressing delight at the acquisition of a player of Tomiyasu's caliber. The defender, speaking after the move, expressed excitement about joining a club currently enjoying great success, having won three titles in two seasons.