Arsenal are reportedly intensifying their pursuit of Crystal Palace star Eberechi Eze, with the player’s £68 million release clause set to expire on August 15. Manager Mikel Arteta has identified the versatile midfielder as a priority target following the acquisition of Sporting CP striker Viktor Gyokeres.
The Gunners have already welcomed six new additions this summer as Arteta aims to end the club’s five-year trophy drought. Eze, who has impressed at Selhurst Park since his 2020 move from Queens Park Rangers, caught the eye by scoring the decisive goal in last season’s FA Cup final.
Primarily operating as a No. 8 or 10, Eze’s ability to feature on either wing makes him an attractive prospect for Arsenal. Talks between the Gunners and Crystal Palace are ongoing, with the South London club pointing to Eze’s £68 million release clause as a benchmark for negotiations.
Current reports suggest the release clause consists of an initial £60 million, with an additional £8 million in potential add-ons. Arsenal are reportedly considering paying in instalments, but differing reports place Palace’s upfront demand closer to £35 million. Meanwhile, talk of Eze’s release clause expiring just before the new Premier League season adds further intrigue.
While discussions continue, Arsenal may need to offload players to make room for Eze. Leandro Trossard has attracted interest from Borussia Dortmund, while Reiss Nelson is reportedly in talks with Fulham.
Despite the potential expiration of the release clause, Palace’s valuation of Eze remains firm at £68 million. The player is said to be content at Palace but is open to a move to the Emirates should the opportunity arise.
Arsenal have already held discussions with Eze’s representatives, though the Gunners reportedly value the playmaker at less than the clause, suggesting negotiations could be necessary. Arsenal face Villarreal and Athletic Club in pre-season before starting their Premier League campaign against Manchester United on August 17.
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