Chelsea have reportedly opened formal talks to sign Eberechi Eze from Crystal Palace this summer, as the Blues look to ramp up their attacking options ahead of the new season.
According to multiple reports, Chelsea have already held internal discussions about Eze’s £60m release clause — and initial contact has now been made with the player’s camp. They see him as a high-upside, homegrown profile who could thrive under Enzo Maresca’s possession-heavy setup.
This is Chelsea operating in typical Chelsea fashion — identifying a talent everyone loves and jumping in fast. But this might not be a straightforward race.
Should Arsenal Be Paying Attention?
Arsenal have long admired Eze, and while they’ve not made a formal move, the interest has never really gone away. He fits a lot of the Arteta mould — technically gifted, tactically flexible, Premier League-proven, and homegrown. He can operate on the left wing, as a No. 10, or even in a slightly deeper left interior role.
The Gunners are actively exploring wide options this summer and haven’t made their move on players like Nico Williams or Eze yet. But with Chelsea now accelerating, there’s a real danger Arsenal could miss out — again — to a London rival.
If Mikel Arteta truly wants a player who can rotate with Martin Ødegaard or add another spark to Arsenal’s attacking depth, Eze should be very, very high on the shortlist.
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What It Would Take
The key figure here is £60m — Eze’s release clause. That number is manageable for Chelsea, who continue to bet big on young, Premier League-ready talent. Arsenal could afford that fee too, but they’ll have to move quickly if they don’t want to be left behind.
It’s also worth noting that personal terms aren’t expected to be a problem. Eze is open to a step up, and playing European football is part of the ambition.
Author Opinion
Chelsea are moving — that’s clear. But the question is whether Arsenal will sit and watch or get involved. If Arteta wants another technically elite weapon who can break low blocks and carry the ball through the thirds, this might be the time to act.
Because once Chelsea put the money down, it’s over.
