Arsenal have reportedly submitted an official offer for Crystal Palace star Eberechi Eze, according to reports from The Athletic.
The North London side are now leading the race to secure his services, moving ahead of their fierce rivals Tottenham.
Talks between Spurs and Palace had been moving forward positively in recent days, with both clubs in regular contact.
However, Arsenal’s entry into the negotiations has shifted the situation, as they are ready to meet Palace’s conditions.
The Gunners are looking for added depth in attack due to Kai Havertz’s recent knee injury. Mikel Arteta sees Eze as a versatile option who can step into that position and offer immediate impact.
Sources claim that the 27-year-old midfielder is also eager to join Arsenal, which has placed Tottenham in a weaker position.
Palace are expected to delay any final agreement until after their Europa Conference League play-off match with Fredrikstad on Thursday.
Boyhood Arsenal fan keen on move
Eze grew up supporting Arsenal and once played in their academy during his youth career. The midfielder now feels ready to take the next step in his career, and Palace understand his desire for a big move.
His impressive displays last season have only strengthened the belief that he is ready for a club playing at the top level.
The England international registered 14 goals and provided 11 assists in all competitions during the 2024/25 campaign.
He was central to Palace’s success, guiding them to one of the most memorable seasons in their history.
Eze wrote his name into the club’s folklore after scoring in the FA Cup final win against Manchester City.
That goal secured Palace’s first-ever major trophy, cementing his reputation as one of their finest players in recent years.
Eze joined the south London club from Queens Park Rangers in 2020 for a fee in the region of £17 million.
Since then, he has made 169 appearances, scoring 40 times and establishing himself as the team’s creative leader.
The midfielder has also been capped 12 times by England, finding the net once at international level.
With Arsenal now willing to push firmly for his signature, his time at Selhurst Park could be nearing its conclusion.