Arsenal’s Transfer Plans Stalled as Concerns Mount Over Eze Fit – London Rivals Poised to Pounce
Arsenal’s busy summer transfer window may hit an unexpected roadblock as the club hesitates to finalize a deal for Crystal Palace star Eberechi Eze. Despite personal terms being agreed and a hefty release clause in play, doubts within the Gunners’ camp over Eze’s tactical fit have left the door open for Premier League rivals Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur to make their move.
Arsenal’s Summer Business Gathers Pace
Arsenal have acted swiftly in the summer transfer market, already securing five key additions including Martin Zubimendi, Noni Madueke, and Cristhian Mosquera. Sporting CP striker Viktor Gyokeres is expected to become their sixth signing, with his medical reportedly scheduled for this weekend. Once that deal is completed, attention is likely to shift toward fine-tuning the squad and securing a dynamic attacking midfielder—enter Eberechi Eze.
Eze Agreement Near—but Not Complete
The Crystal Palace midfielder is coming off an exceptional season, racking up 25 goal contributions across all competitions. Arsenal have reportedly reached a preliminary agreement to pay an initial £30 million for the England international, with negotiations continuing over the remaining £38 million of his £68 million release clause.
Eze has already signaled his intention to join Mikel Arteta’s side, and personal terms are said to be agreed. The only hurdle? Finalizing a payment structure that satisfies Crystal Palace’s desire for full payment within two years.
Tactical Fit Raises Red Flags at Emirates
While the financial and personal aspects of the deal seem settled, concerns have reportedly emerged within Arsenal’s camp regarding how Eze would slot into their current system. According to Flashscore journalist Dean Jones, some within the club are unsure whether the 26-year-old fits Arteta’s tactical blueprint.
Eze excels in a central attacking midfield role—an area Arsenal already consider well-staffed. This internal uncertainty has led to a hesitation that could be costly in a highly competitive transfer window.
Spurs and Chelsea Smell Opportunity
Sensing Arsenal’s wavering stance, Crystal Palace have begun reaching out to other interested clubs, including Chelsea and Tottenham. Both London sides are in the market for creative reinforcements and could move quickly to exploit the Gunners’ indecision.
While Eze remains committed to Palace for the time being, the £68 million release clause provides an open path for any club ready to act decisively.
What’s Next for Arsenal?
With Arsenal’s internal deliberations dragging on, a firm decision will need to be made soon. Whether they push forward with the signing or risk losing Eze to a domestic rival, the coming days could define the shape of their midfield for the 2025/26 campaign.
