Arsenal are seriously considering a move for Crystal Palace playmaker Eberechi Eze, but internal debates over his tactical suitability have stalled progress on a potential summer switch to the Emirates.
Eze, who is of Nigerian heritage, has long been admired by the Gunners’ recruitment team.
The 26-year-old England international is viewed as one of the most technically gifted and versatile attacking players in the Premier League.
However, concerns are growing within the club about whether he fits into Mikel Arteta’s current setup, particularly given Arsenal’s existing depth in central attacking roles.
The Gunners have explored the structure of Eze’s £68 million release clause and were believed to be lining up a bid earlier in the summer.
Sources close to the player say Eze was quietly optimistic that a transfer was on the cards and had begun to envision a move to North London.
However, the hesitation from Arsenal appears rooted in a tactical dilemma.
With the likes of Martin Ødegaard and Kai Havertz already occupying the No. 10 and advanced midfield positions, questions remain about how Eze would be deployed without disrupting team balance.
Although Arteta is open to competition within his squad, there is a sense that the club may be reluctant to invest heavily in a player whose best position is already well covered.
This uncertainty has not gone unnoticed. Crystal Palace, anticipating Arsenal’s indecision, are reportedly attempting to draw Chelsea and Tottenham into the race in hopes of sparking a bidding war.
For now, Eze remains focused on Palace, but with his release clause active, he remains within reach for any club willing to act decisively.
