Arsenal’s summer transfer plans may yet include Eberechi Eze, but the path to securing the Crystal Palace midfielder is far from straightforward. The north London club have been strongly linked with the England international for several weeks, identifying him as one of the final pieces to complete their squad rebuild ahead of the new campaign.
Mikel Arteta and his recruitment team have already been busy in the market, securing Martin Zubimendi, Noni Madueke and Viktor Gyokeres, but interest in Eze remains strong. The 26-year-old playmaker has impressed both domestically and internationally, catching the eye with his ability to operate centrally as a No.10, a role Arsenal are keen to strengthen. Talks between the player and Arsenal have already taken place, with no concerns over personal terms should a fee eventually be agreed. Eze is understood to be open to the move, excited by the idea of playing at the Emirates and contributing to a side expected to challenge again for the Premier League title.
As it stands, many of thebest bookmakers not on GamStop have Arsenal priced at 9/4 to win the 2025/26 Premier League, making them second favourites just behind Liverpool in the title race. The potential arrival of Eberechi Eze could shorten those odds further and spark even more betting activity, especially at sites that combine competitive football odds with fast payouts, a wide choice of payment methods, and attractive offers such as welcome rewards, odds boosts, and free bets. These platforms are seen as ideal places for punters to back the Gunners and their summer signings Zubimendi, Madueke, Gyökeres, and possibly Eze.
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Arsenal are not rushing to force through a deal, even though both the club and Eze are interested. The Gunners appear relaxed, preferring to explore the situation carefully before committing to what would be another sizeable outlay. Palace, for their part, have set firm demands, reportedly asking for a significant portion of the transfer fee to be paid upfront, with at least half delivered before instalments cover the remainder.
This stance underlines Palace’s determination to hold their ground, especially with Eze seen as one of their most important players after playing adecisive role in last season’s FA Cup success, the first major trophy in the club’s history. That achievement elevated his status at Selhurst Park and made him a symbol of what Palace can accomplish when their best talents are kept. Letting him leave now would feel like a step back for a side eager to build on that historic triumph.
With Palace determined to protect a player central to their recent success, Arsenal must balance ambition with pragmatism as they consider how to structure a deal without overextending themselves. Financial balance is also shaping Arsenal’s approach, with the squad still heavy and exits likely necessary before new additions arrive.Oleksandr Zinchenko, Leandro Trossard, and Reiss Nelson have all been linked with possible departures, and freeing up space on the wage bill could smooth the way for Eze’s arrival. The club must manage both squad depth and financial commitments, making the next few weeks pivotal.
Crystal Palace themselves are in a tricky position. While the south London club want to keep hold of their creative midfielder, there is recognition that interest from a Champions League-level side could be difficult to ignore. However, frustrations are emerging from within the club. Manager Oliver Glasner has admitted his squad has yet to be strengthened significantly during the transfer window, pointing out that he currently has fewer outfield players than he would like. His concern is that, if departures occur without proper reinforcements, Palace may again face a late scramble in the market, as happened last year.
This dynamic leaves Arsenal with leverage, though timing is critical. Palace’s insistence on upfront payments highlights how much they value Eze, but Arsenal’s measured stance shows they are willing to bide their time. The Gunners know the player is open to the move and that personal terms are unlikely to be a stumbling block, so the focus shifts entirely to negotiations between the clubs.
For Arsenal, adding Eze would further elevate a squad already boosted by high-profile arrivals this summer. For Palace, his departure would represent a major blow, particularly with their manager calling for more signings to avoid another sluggish start. The next stage of talks will determine whether Eze becomes the final marquee arrival at the Emirates or remains the heartbeat of Palace’s midfield.
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