Gunners Ramp Up Midfield Hunt with Crystal Palace Star in Sights
Arsenal are nearing the end of an ambitious summer transfer window but remain active in their pursuit of Crystal Palace playmaker Eberechi Eze. With a key deadline approaching for his release clause, the Gunners face crucial negotiations as they aim to secure one final marquee signing to bolster their midfield creativity.
Arsenal’s Summer Spending Spree Nears Completion
Following a busy summer of signings, Arsenal have already splashed close to £200 million to reinforce their squad. New arrivals include goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga, midfielders Martin Zubimendi and Christian Norgaard, as well as attacking options Noni Madueke, Cristhian Mosquera, and striker Viktor Gyokeres.
While those additions have addressed multiple areas of need, Arsenal are still keen on adding a dynamic attacking midfielder—making Eberechi Eze a top target.
Why Eze is on Arsenal’s Radar
Eze is coming off a stellar 2024/25 campaign, where he racked up 25 goal contributions across all competitions and played a pivotal role in Crystal Palace’s FA Cup triumph. His performances have not gone unnoticed, drawing attention from several Premier League clubs and even sparking interest from Bayern Munich. However, Arsenal are currently seen as the frontrunners for his signature.
Looming Deadline for Eze’s Release Clause
According to a report from talkSPORT, a key obstacle in Arsenal’s pursuit is the tight timeline surrounding Eze’s release clause. The clause is set at £68 million and must be triggered by midnight on Friday. Despite the ticking clock, Arsenal reportedly have no intention of activating the clause.
Instead, the North London club are taking a calculated approach, hoping to negotiate a transfer fee closer to £60 million—believing they can strike a deal below the clause value before the window closes.
Player Sales Could Fund the Move
To facilitate the move for Eze, Arsenal may need to offload a player or two. Wingers Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard have both been linked with potential exits. However, Arsenal have made it clear that Martinelli is not for sale, especially after turning down interest from Saudi Pro League clubs. Trossard, on the other hand, is reportedly in early discussions over a new contract, though nothing has been finalized.
Arsenal and Palace Still Apart on Valuation
Negotiations between the two clubs remain ongoing, with differing views on the financial structure of the deal. Palace are said to want at least £35 million paid upfront and a total package that closely matches the £68 million clause. Arsenal, however, are aiming for a deal similar to the £55 million Newcastle paid Nottingham Forest for Anthony Elanga.
Eze has two years left on his current contract, a detail Arsenal hope will help drive the price down as the transfer window nears its end.
What’s Next?
With the Friday deadline fast approaching and both clubs holding firm in their valuation, the next 48 hours could be crucial. Arsenal will be hoping Crystal Palace soften their stance, allowing Mikel Arteta to secure the creative spark his squad still craves.
