Report: Arsenal want Crystal Palace star but must sell before bid | OneFootball

Arsenal Step Up Pursuit of Eze Amidst Summer Spending Drive

Arsenal are preparing to table a formal offer for Crystal Palace midfielder Eze as they look to add further firepower to Mikel Arteta’s squad. Sources close to the club suggest that a bid worth approximately €60million (£52.2m) is being finalised, with movement expected before the start of the Premier League season.

The north London club have already been one of the Premier League’s most active sides in the transfer market, following last season’s narrow title miss to Liverpool. Having already completed deals for six first-team additions, the focus has now shifted to attacking reinforcements — with Eze identified as a key target.

Palace Braced for Arsenal Move as Release Clause Nears Expiry

Crystal Palace are aware of Arsenal’s growing intent and are preparing for negotiations. Eze, who has become a pivotal figure at Selhurst Park, has a release clause reportedly set at £68m — a figure that expires before the campaign begins. Despite this, Arsenal are understood to be confident that a slightly lower offer may be enough to bring Palace to the table.

Initial discussions have been encouraging for Arsenal. Eze is said to be open to the move and impressed by the project Arteta is building, while personal terms have already been agreed in principle. Though Palace are under no obligation to sell below the clause value, the player’s openness to a transfer may weigh heavily in talks.

Vieira Exit Key to Unlocking Eze Transfer

A critical aspect of Arsenal’s pursuit rests on the potential departure of Fabio Vieira. The Portuguese playmaker is attracting interest from VfB Stuttgart, with negotiations ongoing over a fee in the region of €20m (£17.4m). Arsenal are believed to prefer a higher valuation, but are also aware that delaying Eze’s move risks losing ground in negotiations — especially with the clause expiry looming.

If Vieira’s exit is confirmed this week, Arsenal are expected to act swiftly in submitting their opening offer for Eze. While there remains optimism that a deal can be struck, Palace’s valuation and stance on the clause will be decisive.

Strategic Fit and Arsenal’s Long-Term Planning

Bringing in Eze would align with Arsenal’s strategy of adding creative output and positional flexibility to their midfield. Arteta’s existing options have offered structure and discipline, but there’s a recognised need for a player capable of unlocking defences in central areas and contributing directly to goals.

Pundits have highlighted Eze’s technical ability, agility, and comfort in tight spaces as attributes that could elevate Arsenal’s attacking sequences — particularly in matches where opposition defences sit deep. At 27, Eze offers a blend of experience and peak-performance years, making him a compelling option in the Gunners’ evolution.

With Liverpool, Manchester City and Chelsea also strengthening, the Gunners are pushing to complete their window with purpose and precision. Should the Vieira sale be agreed in time, Arsenal are expected to move decisively for one of Crystal Palace’s most valuable assets.