Arsenal face a summer of big decisions. Mikel Arteta’s side do not want to be left behind in the Premier League and know that the attack needs more spark. The Gunners are coming off the back of a season where they came close to glory, but some key games made it clear that there is a need for attacking flair, goals and something different.
That is why the board is moving fast to reinforce several areas with players who add immediate talent and room for improvement. The plan is not limited to one single addition: they are looking for quality, but also versatility and a hunger to win. With direct rivals such as City and Liverpool strengthening, the north Londoners do not want any surprises.
Arsenal are advancing to sign Eberechi Eze
According to information from Caught Offside, Arsenal are clear about their next move: to sign Eberechi Eze, along with Noni Madueke and Viktor Gyokeres. Eze’s name has been bandied about for months, but his big moment came after scoring the decisive goal in the FA Cup final. Crystal Palace will not let him go easily, as his clause is around £60m and could rise to £68m with variables.
Even so, the Gunners plan to make an initial offer of around £45m, supplemented by target bonuses. Journalist Mark Brus claims that Palace could accept as long as the figures are in line with expectations. Personal terms between the player and the club are not seen as an obstacle. Meanwhile, Tottenham, who flirted with Eze, are already eyeing Mohammed Kudus. On the other hand, Madueke is a priority target. Chelsea are still negotiating, but there is a formal offer. And Gyokeres, who has shone with Sporting CP, is a step away if they agree on the final payment. Arteta is betting on young, fast players with knack of scoring goals.
Good move for Arsenal?
Now, is this Arsenal offensive the right one? I think that signing Eze would be a good move, although not without risks. On the plus side, the Englishman brings a lot of pace, technique and creativity. He can play as a striker or more open, something that gives Arteta variants in front of low blocks. In addition, he has character, does not hide in big games, and knows the league. On the downside, Crystal Palace lose a key player and the final price could be high, leaving less room for other reinforcements.
Eze has also lacked continuity without injury for long stretches. If Arsenal can get Madueke and Gyokeres alongside him, they will gain depth and different profiles: Madueke is a pure winger, Gyokeres a strong and dynamic “nine”. The pressure to perform will be strong, but the squad will have more resources to turn close games.
In my opinion, if they manage to close everything for less than what a single superstar would cost, it pays off. The risk is minimal if the management keeps a balance and doesn’t overpay without a plan. Arteta will know how to exploit his vertical football. If Arsenal want to keep fighting for the league and Europe, these signings can make the difference.