Arsenal Expected to Bid for Crystal Palace's Eberechi Eze Before Transfer Deadline

Arsenal remain keen on signing Eberechi Eze from Crystal Palace before the summer transfer window closes, with the player himself reportedly expecting to join the Gunners. Despite having a £68 million release clause that is expiring, Arsenal have communicated they do not plan to trigger it immediately, preferring to negotiate a lower fee due to Eze being in the final two years of his contract. Internally, Arsenal are debating where Eze would fit best in the squad, as he is primarily a No.10 but Arsenal already have several players for that role, including Martin Odegaard and Ethan Nwaneri. Arsenal's recent underwhelming performances, particularly in creative areas highlighted by the North London Derby loss, have increased the urgency to bolster their midfield creativity with Eze's signing. Palace, not under financial pressure and keen to keep Eze, are expected to demand a high fee, but the player’s desire to join Arsenal adds complexity to the negotiations. Overall, Arsenal's pursuit of Eze is a strategic move to strengthen their squad for a title challenge, balancing financial considerations and tactical fit while responding to recent team vulnerabilities.