Eberechi Eze with Oliver Glasner
Image credit: Getty Images
Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner has cast fresh doubt over the future of star midfielder Eberechi Eze, admitting he cannot guarantee the England international will remain at Selhurst Park beyond the summer transfer window.
Arsenal are among the clubs reportedly monitoring the 27-year-old, whose future has become a hot topic with the Premier League transfer deadline fast approaching on September 1 at 7pm.
Speaking ahead of Palace’s Community Shield clash with Liverpool on Sunday, Glasner confirmed Eze’s short-term availability but avoided long-term assurances. “He will play on Sunday, definitely, and Marc [Guehi] as well, he will captain the team,” Glasner said, sidestepping questions over whether Eze will stay beyond the weekend.
Eze, signed from Queens Park Rangers in 2020 for £16 million, enjoyed a standout 2023/24 campaign, scoring 14 goals and providing 11 assists in all competitions. His performances earned him a place in England’s Euro 2024 squad, where he made substitute appearances. The midfielder’s contract runs until 2027 and reportedly contains a £67.5 million release clause, although its current validity is disputed.
Arsenal - Eberechi Eze
Arsenal - Eberechi Eze
Arsenal view Eze as a versatile attacking option capable of strengthening both their midfield and wide areas. While representatives of the player have held preliminary talks with the Gunners, no formal offer has been lodged. Tottenham Hotspur are also interested, particularly in light of James Maddison’s ACL injury, but have similarly yet to make a bid.
For Palace, losing Eze would represent a major setback, especially amid a quiet summer in the transfer market. Glasner has so far added only goalkeeper Walter Benitez and left-back Borna Sosa, and hinted that limited squad investment could influence his own future at the club.
Meanwhile, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has signalled his side remain open to further signings despite spending nearly £200 million this summer.
“Let’s see what happens, in terms of where the squad is in the next few weeks,” Arteta said after a 3-0 win over Athletic Club. “We are actively looking at options… and a few players may have to leave as well. We will be open to see what happens.”