Arsenal’s interest in Crystal Palace star Eberechi Eze is growing stronger by the day, but the Gunners remain firm in their stance—they won’t pay more than £60 million. While the winger reportedly has a £67.5 million release clause, Arsenal are holding back, hoping Palace will soften their demands. The situation is developing, and it feels like one of those transfer sagas that could go either way.
What’s clear, though, is that Eberechi Eze wants Arsenal. Reports suggest the 27-year-old England international sees Mikel Arteta’s side as his preferred destination. Those close to the player are optimistic a deal can be struck in the coming weeks. Arsenal, however, have business to finish elsewhere first. They are currently wrapping up the signing of Sporting striker Viktor Gyökeres, who is undergoing his medical in London. Once that’s done, the focus will shift fully to Eze.
Despite no formal contact between the clubs yet, the feeling is that negotiations could be smooth. The boardroom relationship between Arsenal and Palace is said to be positive, and both parties are expected to show some flexibility. Arsenal reportedly hope to pay the fee in three £20 million instalments—an offer that might work for Palace if other terms align. Eberechi Eze.
Interestingly, Arsenal are considering a swap deal that could involve winger Reiss Nelson. The Gunners may also look to offload other fringe players to help balance the books, although insiders suggest Eberechi Eze’s signing isn’t entirely dependent on player sales. The club is still determined to strengthen further after last season’s near miss in the title race. Eberechi Eze.
Arsenal’s attacking issues were evident last season. They scored fewer than 70 goals in the Premier League, and injuries to key players at crucial moments hurt their rhythm. Signing Eberechi Eze would address that concern. He’s a creative, dynamic, and intelligent attacker who can dribble, shoot, and link play with ease. With 34 goals and 23 assists in his Premier League career,Eberechi Eze has proven his quality at the highest level.
For Palace, the situation is complicated by their own challenges. Despite winning the FA Cup, UEFA has barred them from participating in next season’s Europa League due to multi-club ownership issues tied to Lyon. They’ve appealed the ruling, with a verdict expected by August 11. Until then, some players, including Eberechi Eze, might hold off on making final decisions about their future.
There’s also an international angle to consider. The next FIFA World Cup is just around the corner, and for players like Eberechi Eze, a move to a club competing in Europe regularly—like Arsenal—could strengthen their case for national team selection. England boss Thomas Tuchel will be keeping a close eye on players performing at the highest level.
As of now, no deal is done, but the signs point towards progress. Arsenal are actively working on the deal, Eberechi Eze is reportedly keen, and Crystal Palace may be more open to negotiation than they appear. With time still left in the summer window, there’s every chance that Eze could be the next exciting addition to Arteta’s evolving Arsenal side.