Arsenal - Eberechi Eze
Image credit: Getty Images
Arsenal are preparing for a decisive push in the final stretch of the summer transfer window, with Crystal Palace star Eberechi Eze emerging as their primary target, according to Football.London.
With under four weeks remaining before the window closes, the Gunners are looking to reinforce their attacking options as Mikel Arteta continues to build a squad capable of challenging Premier League champions Liverpool.
Eze, 27, has become one of the most sought-after talents in English football following a standout season with Crystal Palace, which culminated in him scoring the winning goal in their FA Cup final victory over Manchester City. The England international’s creativity, dribbling ability, and positional versatility across midfield and the flanks have made him a priority for Arsenal.
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While Eze’s £68 million release clause is set to expire on August 15, Arsenal are reportedly hoping to negotiate a fee below that figure, with sporting director Andrea Berta leading the talks. However, Palace are reluctant to sell and are demanding a significant upfront payment for their star man.
Despite making Eze their top priority, Arsenal have lined up alternative targets in case negotiations with Palace break down. According to The Times, Real Madrid winger Rodrygo is also under consideration. The 24-year-old Brazilian has struggled for consistent minutes under new Madrid boss Xabi Alonso and is believed to be open to a move to gain more playing time. However, Rodrygo’s £78 million price tag and long-term contract through 2028 make a permanent transfer unlikely, leaving Arsenal to explore a potential loan deal.
Arsenal - Rodrygo
Real Madrid star Rodrygo (Image credit: Getty Images)
Another player on Arsenal’s shortlist is Newcastle United’s Anthony Gordon. As reported by Football.London, the Gunners have long admired the 23-year-old winger, who is valued at around £56 million by Transfermarkt.
Gordon’s speed and directness offer an appealing option, but Newcastle’s reluctance to sell, especially amid uncertainty surrounding striker Alexander Isak could prove a major stumbling block. The Magpies’ recent acquisition of Anthony Elanga from Nottingham Forest may ease their dependence on Gordon, but Arsenal would still need to submit a compelling offer to tempt Newcastle into negotiations.
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The North London club have already been among the busiest in the market, completing the signings of Viktor Gyokeres, Martin Zubimendi, Noni Madueke, Christian Norgaard, Cristhian Mosquera, and Kepa Arrizabalaga, spending an estimated £200 million.
Newcastle United forward Anthony Gordon (Image credit: Getty Images)
Still, Arteta is pushing for one more attacking addition, particularly on the left flank, where the futures of Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard remain in doubt. A potential exit for either could accelerate Arsenal’s pursuit of one of their shortlisted targets.
With the Premier League season set to begin next weekend, Arsenal face a race against time to finalise their squad. Whether they land Eze, Rodrygo, or Gordon, the Gunners will need to navigate a delicate balance between meeting their transfer ambitions and facilitating departures to fund further business, moves that could ultimately define their 2025/26 campaign.
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