Arsenal’s long-standing interest in Eberechi Eze may finally be heading toward a breakthrough. Crystal Palace’s latest move in the transfer market signals a clear readiness to part ways with their star midfielder — and all signs now point toward North London.
Despite an already busy summer window, which has seen the Gunners bring in six new players including Viktor Gyökeres, Martín Zubimendi, and Noni Madueke, Mikel Arteta’s squad is still seen as lacking variety on the left-hand side of the attack. Both Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard have been inconsistent, and Eze’s profile fits the mold of the kind of creative threat Arsenal still need.
Palace Prepare for Eze’s Departure
According to journalist Santi Aouna, Crystal Palace have identified Leicester City’s Bilal El Khannouss as their top target to replace Eze. The 20-year-old Moroccan was a rare bright spark in a struggling Leicester team last season, and with the Foxes now relegated to the Championship, a deal should be relatively easy to finalise.
Palace’s willingness to line up a replacement is a strong signal—they’re effectively inviting Arsenal to accelerate their pursuit. It’s a major development that gives the Gunners the green light to step up negotiations.
Tactical Fit Still a Question, but the Quality Isn’t
There are still discussions inside Arsenal over where exactly Eze would fit in the current setup. The 27-year-old thrives in central areas, often playing as a No. 10, which is the same space dominated by captain Martin Ødegaard. However, Arteta reportedly sees Eze as a flexible attacker who could also play from the left or in a deeper creative role when required.
What’s not in question is the quality he brings. Eze ended the 2024/25 Premier League season with eight goals and eight assists in 34 appearances. His numbers underline his ability to both score and create consistently. He averaged over three shots per game, completed more than two successful take-ons per 90 minutes, and regularly found teammates with key passes around the box.
Eze’s movement between the lines and ability to shoot from the edge of the area make him a genuine goal threat—something Arsenal have lacked when Ødegaard is closely marked and the wide players are isolated.
Andrea Berta Must Deliver
With Crystal Palace actively planning for Eze’s departure, Arsenal’s new sporting director Andrea Berta must now move quickly. The stars are aligning, and a reported £60 million deal could be enough to finally bring Eze to the Emirates.
This is the kind of deal that could tip the title race in Arsenal’s favour—adding not just depth but a player who brings something truly different. If Arsenal are serious about evolving their attack and keeping pace with Europe’s elite, then Berta needs to deliver.
Eberechi Eze is ready. Arsenal must make the move.
