Crystal Palace midfielder Eberechi Eze has emerged as a top target for Arsenal, who are exploring ways to revitalise their attack ahead of the 2025/26 campaign.
The 27-year-old, who is of Nigerian descent, is attracting interest after a standout season that saw him guide Palace to FA Cup glory and help secure European qualification — only for UEFA to demote them to the Conference League due to multi-club ownership rules.
European controversy casts shadow on Palace future
Palace’s FA Cup triumph over Manchester City was a high point in the club’s history, securing a Europa League spot and heightened expectations. But those ambitions were quickly clouded by UEFA’s regulations on multi-club ownership.
John Textor’s 43% stake in Palace, while also involved at Lyon, triggered a ruling that knocked Palace into the Conference League instead.
Textor has since sold his shares to New York Jets owner Woody Johnson in a bid to resolve the conflict. The matter is now before the Court of Arbitration for Sport, and Palace remain hopeful of reinstatement, which could be crucial in persuading Eze to remain at Selhurst Park.
Arsenal monitoring as release clause deters immediate bid
Arsenal are reportedly monitoring Eze but have yet to make a formal offer. Palace’s £68 million release clause remains a stumbling block, with the Gunners preferring a more conservative valuation.
Eze, who played at Arsenal’s academy before his release at age 13, is said to be open to returning to North London.
Still, Palace are under no pressure to sell and remain keen to keep their talisman, especially with Europa League ambitions hanging in the balance.
Eze’s tactical fit and attacking value
Eze’s ability to play in various midfield and forward roles would be a significant asset to Mikel Arteta. Capable of operating on both wings or centrally, he has demonstrated an ability to influence games regardless of positioning.
Under Oliver Glasner, he thrived in a 4-2-3-1 system, which Arteta has also occasionally used at Arsenal.
His creativity and intelligent movement would provide depth to an Arsenal side that has relied heavily on Bukayo Saka, Martin Ødegaard, and Kai Havertz.
Superior goal return and creative spark
Eze outperformed most Arsenal midfielders in front of goal last season. His eight Premier League goals outshone the likes of Declan Rice (4), Ødegaard (3), and Jorginho (0), while he added six more goals and 12 assists across all competitions — more than any Gunners midfielder.
Only Havertz (9) bettered his league tally, and Eze’s 2,600 minutes in the Premier League also placed him among the most durable attacking midfielders in the English top flight.
A player who plays with freedom and flair
Following the exits of Thomas Partey and Jorginho, Arsenal have added Martin Zubimendi and Christian Nørgaard, two defensively-minded options. Eze, however, would add something different — a risk-taker, a creator, and a player who thrives in tight spaces and can beat a man with ease.
His confidence on the ball and expressive style bring joy to both teammates and fans — qualities that could help energise a side that fell short of silverware last season.
Whether Arteta allows Eze that freedom or moulds him into a more disciplined role remains to be seen.
In the end, the decision may lie with Eze himself. Should he push for a move, Palace could be forced to part with one of their most prized assets.
