Crystal Palace are on the verge of signing defender Takehiro Tomiyasu on a free transfer, following a successful trial period at the club. The Eagles are also exploring a potential deal for winger Solly March.

BBC Sport revealed last week that Palace and Tomiyasu had entered contract discussions, with the Japan international poised to make his return to the Premier League. The club are now understood to be pushing forward with that signing ahead of the upcoming season.

Tomiyasu's role under Sage

Head coach Pierre Sage is expected to deploy a three-centre-back system next season, and Tomiyasu — versatile enough to operate across the defensive line — is seen as a candidate to fill the left-sided berth in that trio.

The 27-year-old has battled persistent knee problems throughout recent seasons, and while Palace are confident in his quality, the club are taking care to assess his physical condition before confirming the deal.

Tomiyasu left Arsenal by mutual consent last season before joining Ajax, where he featured eight times for the Dutch club in the closing stages of the campaign. He then made three appearances — including two starts — for Japan at the World Cup.

March and other defensive targets

March, 32, departed Brighton at the end of last season and has been put forward as a candidate for Palace. The potential move for the wide player has already been discussed internally at Selhurst Park.

Defensive reinforcement is a priority for Palace this summer after first-choice centre-back Maxence Lacroix moved to Chelsea. The club also hold an interest in a loan deal for Chelsea's 20-year-old defender Josh Acheampong, though there is currently no indication that Chelsea are willing to let him leave.

BBC Sport has also reported that Palace are keen on Brest centre-back Raphael Le Guen, adding to what appears to be a concerted effort to rebuild their defensive options ahead of the new campaign.