Arsenal are keen on recruiting a “versatile attacker” this summer and Crystal Palace’s Eberechi Eze is “high” on their shortlist, according to The Athletic ‘s David Ornstein.
The trusted journalist claims that, while the Gunners have not made any contact with Eze’s club yet, they are seriously considering a move for the 27-year-old.
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Eze does have a release clause in his contract worth an initial £60m, but Ornstein suggests that Mikel Arteta’s side are hoping to secure his services for “below” that amount.
Whether that will be possible, considering that Tottenham are also showing an interest in the England international, it is not known.
Arsenal want to buy 3 forwards
Some had assumed that Eze was being targeted to strengthen the left flank but it is believed that the pursuit of the Palace star is completely separate from the Gunners’ plans to bring in a left winger and a striker.
You can, therefore, understand why they would be aiming to lower Eze’s asking price, considering that they may have to spend £150m, at the very least, on those two other positions.
Eze’s arrival may hinge on player sales
A move for the attacking midfielder may only happen closer to the end of the transfer window due to financial restraints.
While it is apparent that Arsenal want a player of Eze’s profile, you would think that signing a No.9 will be a top priority, while recruiting a winger may also take precedence.
With that being the case, a bid for Eze may depend on who is sold over the coming weeks. Oleksandr Zinchenko is expected to leave if a buyer can be found, while the likes of Albert Sambi-Lokonga and Reiss Nelson are set to be sold as well.
In other news, we put a case forward for Arsenal hijacking Manchester United’s move for a £29.9m rated striker