Liverpool Set to Battle Arsenal in the Race to Sign £60m Premier League Star – Report | OneFootball

Liverpool Eyeing Eze as Arsenal Circle – A Summer Battle Brewing?

As the 2024/25 campaign barrels towards its dramatic conclusion, Liverpool remain front-runners in the Premier League title race under Arne Slot. Yet while the Reds sit firmly in control on the pitch, the battle off it could be just heating up. According to a report by CaughtOffside, Liverpool and Arsenal are now locked in a two-horse race to sign Crystal Palace’s Eberechi Eze in a deal that could reach £60 million.

Eze, fresh off his first England goal and a sublime solo strike in the FA Cup, has become one of the most talked-about players in the division. With six goals and nine assists across all competitions this season, his versatility and flair have made him an attractive prospect for top clubs.

CaughtOffside report: “Liverpool and Arsenal are currently the ‘main suitors’ for Eberechi Eze, whose contract at Crystal Palace contains a £60m release clause.”

The fee could prove to be a sticking point, but both clubs appear willing to explore their options, knowing the 26-year-old won’t come cheap.

Photo: IMAGO

FSG’s Dilemma – Go Big or Go Young?

This is not the archetypal FSG signing. The ownership model that underpinned much of Liverpool’s Klopp-era success favoured players in their early twenties with high resale value. Eze, who turns 27 in June, is entering his peak but doesn’t offer long-term return in the way someone like Dominik Szoboszlai did.

However, with Eze’s form peaking and his England credentials growing, this summer may be Liverpool’s only real window to act.

“He has six goals and nine assists for his club in all competitions this season,” the article states. “Although he surprisingly hasn’t scored in the Premier League so far in 2025.”

Still, what Eze brings cannot be captured entirely by stats. His spatial awareness, dribbling ability, and positional intelligence make him a tactical fit for Slot’s high-possession, high-intensity structure. His ability to drift inside from wide positions or operate as a natural 10 would complement existing talents like Harvey Elliott and Cody Gakpo.

And as Oliver Glasner described him, he’s an “amazing finisher.”

Photo: IMAGO

Arsenal Lurking as North London Adds Fuel to Fire

Arsenal’s interest shouldn’t be underestimated. Mikel Arteta, still seeking that final creative spark to elevate his side beyond near-misses, views Eze as a potential catalyst. His composure and technical precision suit Arsenal’s possession-dominant game as much as they fit Liverpool’s transitional play.

The Gunners will likely present an appealing project – especially if they finish the season strongly and go deep in Europe. But Liverpool’s pull is strong. Anfield, European nights, and a chance to be part of Slot’s next-gen project may just tip the scales.

Moreover, Palace’s willingness to sell stems from practical concerns: “He turns 27 in June and the south Londoners may feel this is their best chance to reap a significant transfer fee,” the report explains.

By cashing in on Eze, Palace may better position themselves to retain other key players such as Marc Guehi and Adam Wharton. It’s pragmatic business from Selhurst Park – and a window of opportunity for the big boys.

Photo: IMAGO

Final Audition at Anfield?

Perhaps fittingly, Eze could have one final chance to audition for the Anfield faithful when Palace visit Merseyside on 25 May. It’s not inconceivable that by the next time he sets foot on that pitch, he could be wearing red.

CaughtOffside sum up the situation by stating: “Liverpool and Arsenal are reportedly the leading contenders to sign Eberechi Eze.”

There’s still plenty of football to be played this season. But off the pitch, the next phase of Arne Slot’s rebuild could be forming – and Eze may well be a central piece.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

The potential pursuit of Eberechi Eze is a fascinating one. At 26, he’s not the typical FSG profile – but perhaps that’s the point. The club is evolving. With Jürgen Klopp’s era now consigned to history, Arne Slot brings with him a new vision, one where tactical versatility and positional intelligence are prized over resale potential.

Eze could offer Liverpool something they’ve lacked since Philippe Coutinho: a natural dribbler who can operate between the lines and unlock low blocks. His footwork, low centre of gravity, and eye for a pass are qualities that would thrive in a team dominating possession against stubborn defences.

However, £60 million is a big outlay. Fans will question whether that money could be better spent on a younger prospect. But in truth, Liverpool don’t need another project – they need players ready to elevate the first XI now.

The fact that Eze hasn’t scored in the league in 2025 might raise some eyebrows, but the underlying performance levels remain high. He’s also capable of game-changing moments – something Liverpool could always use more of in tight encounters.

Seeing Eze at Anfield in May in Palace colours could well be a prelude to a permanent switch. If the price is right and the will is mutual, this could be a transfer that makes complete sense for all parties.