Arsenal are prepared to make a formal offer for Crystal Palace midfielder Eze, as they try to strengthen Mikel Arteta’s squad. According to sources close to the club, a bid of around €60 million (£52.2 million) is being completed, with movement expected before the start of the Premier League season.
Following last season’s narrow title loss to Liverpool, the north London club has already been one of the Premier League’s most busy in the transfer window. After completing deals for six new first-team members, the focus has switched to offensive reinforcements, with Eze touted as a prominent target.
Crystal Palace is aware of Arsenal’s developing intentions and is poised to negotiate. Eze, who has emerged as a key character at Selhurst Park, apparently has a release clause of £68 million, which will expire before the season begins. Despite this, Arsenal are believed to be optimistic that a little lesser offer will be sufficient to entice Palace to the table.
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Arsenal has had good initial discussions. Eze is said to be open to the move and impressed with the initiative Arteta is developing, and personal arrangements have already been agreed upon in principle. Though Palace is under no duty to sell below the clause value, the player’s willingness to transfer may be a factor in negotiations.
Vieira Exit Key for Unlocking Eze Transfer
Arsenal’s ambition hinges on Fabio Vieira’s impending exit. VfB Stuttgart is interested in the Portuguese playmaker, and negotiations are underway for a cost of around €20 million (£17.4 million). Arsenal is thought to prefer a greater price, but they are also conscious that prolonging Eze’s move risks losing momentum in negotiations, especially with the clause expiring soon.
If Vieira’s departure is announced this week, Arsenal should move quickly to submit their opening bid for Eze. While there is always hope that a trade can be reached, Palace’s value and position on the clause will be key.
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