Crystal Palace’s Eberechi Eze has captured the attention of Arsenal, Chelsea, and Liverpool, with Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta reportedly ready to make significant roster changes to secure the midfielder.
Eze, who impressed with 17 goal contributions in 31 matches during the 2023/24 season, earned a spot in England’s Euro 2024 squad. Despite limited playing time in the tournament, the 25-year-old’s performance has sparked interest from top Premier League clubs.
Journalist Simon Phillips reports that Arsenal is leading the race for Eze’s signature, showing more intent than their rivals. Arteta is reportedly prepared to offload Emile Smith Rowe and Reiss Nelson to create space for the talented playmaker.
“Arsenal are ‘seriously interested’ in signing Eze, and they are looking to move out players like Emile Smith Rowe and Reiss Nelson to make room for Eze,” Phillips said. However, competition remains fierce as Chelsea and Liverpool are also in pursuit.
Chelsea’s Interest in Eze Remains Tentative
Chelsea has shown admiration for Eze, but the club’s focus is on securing a winger, with Eze seen more as an attacking midfielder. While Eze’s versatility could eventually heighten Chelsea’s interest, the club’s pursuit remains less aggressive compared to Arsenal.
“A lot of people at Chelsea like the England international. However, he is seen as more of a 10 than a winger, and Chelsea are targeting a winger more than a 10,” Phillips added. Chelsea’s interest is tentative, with no significant advancements in their pursuit as of Wednesday morning.
TEAMtalk revealed that Chelsea is prioritizing Athletic Bilbao’s Nico Williams after missing out on Michael Olise, positioning Williams higher on their wishlist than Eze.
Eze’s Potential Fit at Arsenal
Former Arsenal and Manchester United defender Mikael Silvestre believes Eze would be a strong addition to Arteta’s squad. However, Silvestre acknowledges the competition Eze would face for a starting spot amidst a talented roster including Martinelli, Trossard, Saka, Havertz, and Gabriel Jesus.
“He’s (Eze) very good and would be a strong addition to Arsenal,” Silvestre said. “But it won’t be easy to secure a place with the current squad. He’s got the quality to play for Arsenal, no doubt.”
The coming weeks will reveal whether Arsenal is willing to meet Eze’s reported £60m release clause or if another club will swoop in to secure his services.
