Arsenal are edging towards a deal for Crystal Palace star Eberechi Eze, with the structure of the transfer now the primary focus after his release clause expired. The Gunners have agreed bank refinancing on the payment terms, clearing a significant hurdle in negotiations.
Crystal Palace chairman Steve Parish has accepted the prospect of Eze leaving, though manager Oliver Glasner is less pleased, having made clear he wanted the 26-year-old to remain a key part of his plans. Palace’s ownership group, however, are now prioritising incoming funds after missing out on Europa League revenue due to multi-club ownership restrictions.
Palace want a replacement before sanctioning Eberechi Eze sale
The South London club are intent on securing a replacement before giving Eze the green light to move. That delay is understood to be the final obstacle, with Arsenal and the player both patient but only within reason.
Arsenal are mindful of the calendar, with three major fixtures looming, including a crucial clash against Liverpool on 31 August. Mikel Arteta wants his strongest possible squad in place well before that date to maintain momentum in the opening weeks of the Premier League season.
Arsenal’s tactical vision for Eze
Eze has long been on Arsenal’s shortlist, valued for his ability to operate across multiple attacking roles. Arteta sees him as a direct, dynamic option who can link midfield and attack while offering goal threat from open play. The deal’s structure, now being finalised, is designed to balance Palace’s need for funds with Arsenal’s financial planning after a busy summer window.
With financing agreed and personal terms already in place, the deal now hinges on Palace’s progress in the market. If a replacement is secured in the coming days, Arsenal could finalise Eze’s arrival in time for him to feature before the Liverpool fixture, a timeline the club are quietly working towards.
