Eberechi Eze
Image credit: Getty Images
Arsenal are preparing to step up their pursuit of Crystal Palace midfielder Eberechi Eze, with a formal bid expected once Fabio Vieira’s proposed move to VfB Stuttgart gathers pace.
According to FootballTransfers, the Gunners’ push for Eze depends on offloading Vieira to create financial flexibility after an expensive summer in which Arsenal have already spent nearly £200 million on six first‑team signings, including Viktor Gyökeres and Martin Zubimendi.
Eze, 27, has been a long‑term target for Mikel Arteta, who views the England international as a versatile addition capable of playing on the left flank or in a central playmaking role. The midfielder was a standout performer for Palace last season, producing 14 goals and 11 assists in 43 appearances. His ability to unlock packed defences has made him one of Arteta’s priority signings ahead of the 2025/26 Premier League campaign.
READ MORE: Mikel Arteta makes bold Viktor Gyokeres claim ahead of Premier League opener
Arsenal are expected to table an initial offer of around €60 million (£52.2m), below Eze’s reported £68m release clause, which may have expired earlier this month. Palace are bracing for negotiations, while Eze is said to be keen on the move without actively forcing an exit. The player hopes for clarity on his future before Palace face Liverpool in the Community Shield on August 10.
Arsenal - Fabio Vieira
Fabio Vieira (Image credit: Getty Images)
To fund the deal, Arsenal are working to finalise Vieira’s departure. The 25‑year‑old midfielder, who joined from Porto in 2022 for €40m, has struggled for regular minutes at the Emirates and spent last season on loan back in Portugal, contributing 11 goals and assists.
CLICK HERE TO JOIN THE NOW ARSENAL WHATSAPP GROUP CHAT NOW!
Stuttgart see Vieira as an ideal replacement for Enzo Millot, who is close to joining Al‑Ahli, and are believed to be preparing a €20m offer, though Arsenal are holding out for more.
The potential arrival of Eze would give Arsenal another creative option in attack. Pundits have highlighted his close control, agility and ability to break lines, while former Arsenal defender Mikael Silvestre has urged caution, warning that the intense competition in Arteta’s squad could limit the “freedom and importance” Eze currently enjoys at Selhurst Park.
NEXT ARTICLE: Mikel Arteta outlines plans for Max Dowman after another impressive display