Crystal Palace are in talks with former Arsenal defender Takehiro Tomiyasu over a permanent contract. Tomiyasu is training with Palace and was named as a substitute in the pre-season friendly versus Lens on Tuesday. And the Japan international is understood to have held discussions over a permanent deal with Palace that would mean the 27-year-old joining on a free transfer. Sage is set to play with three central defenders next season and it is understood Tomiyasu, should Palace proceed, is viewed as a potential option to play on the left side of the trio. Tomiyasu's recent career has been plagued by knee issues and, while Palace are convinced of the former Arsenal's man ability, the club want to be sure with regards to his fitness. Upon leaving the Gunners by mutual consent last season, Tomiyasu joined Ajax, where he made eight appearances for the Dutch side towards the end of the campaign. Palace want to strengthen their defensive options this summer with first-choice central defender Maxence Lacroix set to join Chelsea. The Eagles have already made at least one offer for Augsburg centre-back Chrislain Matsima, with talks continuing between the two clubs over a potential 30m euro (£25.7m) deal. Palace also have an interest in a possible loan deal for Chelsea defender Josh Acheampong, but as yet there are no indications that the Stamford Bridge club are prepared to sanction the 20-year-old's exit. League standing (final 2025 table -- new season not yet under way): 1st in Premier League, 85 pts, 26W-7D-5L from 38 games, recent form WWWWW. Palace are 7 points clear of Manchester City at the top of the table. Their next fixture is against Fulham at home on February 20, 2027.