Everton and Liverpool have now been in contact to sign former Arsenal defender Takehiro Tomiyasu, who is able to join on a free transfer.
Tomyiasyu is available after leaving Eredivisie giants Ajax upon the expiration of his contract earlier this summer, having been unable to make any major impact.
The full-back made just nine appearances for the Dutch side in all competitions, despite only enduring a couple of minor injury setbacks, but his previous exploits in the Premier League offer more encouragement.
The ex-Arsenal defender made 65 appearances in the top flight during his time with the Gunners, and he received major plaudits from Mikel Arteta after sustaining an injury during the 2024-25 season, with the Spaniard saying: “We really need him, he has been incredible, his work rate, the amount of hours he has put in to get back. He did it and he was in great shape – and now he has got something else again. But, we are all behind him. He needs our support, and hopefully he will be fine.”
As such, the Japan international could be a solid option for a Premier League side looking to bring in some additional depth at the back, and clubs are now queuing up to secure his signature.
Everton battling Liverpool for Takehiro Tomiyasu
According to a report from TEAMtalk, Everton and Liverpool are now showing interest in signing Tomiyasu, and contact has already been made with intermediaries.
However, Crystal Palace are leading the race for the full-back’s signature, with new manager Pierre Sage regarded as a keen admirer.
The 27-year-old has been training with the Eagles ahead of the new season, so the Merseyside clubs may need to move swiftly if they are going to tempt him into a move.
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Why Liverpool and Everton need to sign Takehiro Tomiyasu |
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Liverpool |
Liverpool already have Jeremie Frimpong and Conor Bradley to choose from at right-back. However, both defenders struggled with injuries last season, which led to Curtis Jones being deployed at right-back during the business end of the campaign. As such, new manager Andoni Iraola could do with some additional cover on that side of the defence, and Tomiyasu was a reliable back-up during his time with Arsenal. |
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Everton |
The Toffees, on the other hand, could do with signing a new right-back following the departure of Seamus Coleman at the end of last season. David Moyes has made three additions this summer, with Merlin Rohl, Tyrique George and Hayden Hackney arriving at the Hill Dickinson Stadium, but none of them play in defence. |
Everton also seriously considering Liam Delap move
Striker is also arguably a problem position for Everton, with Thierno Barry netting just eight goals in all competitions last season, and they have now set out to strengthen in that area of the pitch.
Chelsea’s Liam Delap is under serious consideration, with Moyes regarded as a big fan of the Englishman.
