Arsenal are preparing a massive summer move for Crystal Palace sensation Eberechi Eze, with Mikel Arteta making the creative midfielder his number one target to bolster the Gunners' attacking options.
The North London giants are ready to trigger Eze's £60 million release clause to fend off mounting interest from rival Premier League clubs. The 25-year-old playmaker has emerged as one of the most exciting talents in English football, earning his first senior England caps last year.
Arteta sees Eze as the perfect addition to add creativity and goal threat from midfield, qualities that could prove crucial in Arsenal's ongoing title battles with Manchester City. The Spanish manager has been tracking Eze's progress closely and believes he possesses the technical quality and tactical intelligence to thrive at the Emirates.
Eze's current contract with Palace includes a release clause that becomes active this summer, alerting several top clubs. However, Arsenal are positioning themselves at the front of the queue for a player who has scored eight goals so far this season despite Palace's struggles.
The potential transfer represents a significant homecoming for the London-born star, who began his career at Arsenal's fierce rivals Tottenham before being released at age 13. His journey through Millwall, Wycombe Wanderers, and Queens Park Rangers before his £20 million move to Palace in 2020 makes his rise even more remarkable.
With Champions League football likely again next season and Arteta building a squad capable of sustained success, the Gunners hierarchy are prepared to back their manager with significant funds to secure his primary targets. Eze's ability to operate across multiple attacking positions makes him particularly valuable to Arteta's fluid system.
Palace face a battle to keep their prized asset, especially with manager Roy Hodgson's future uncertain. The South London club may have little choice but to accept a big-money offer that meets their valuation, particularly with Financial Fair Play considerations always present for clubs outside the elite.
This potential move signals Arsenal's ambition to build on their recent progress and mount another serious title challenge next season, with Eze potentially becoming their first major signing of the summer window.
