Arsenal have launched a bid to sign Crystal Palace forward Eberechi Eze, with sources saying the Gunners are preparing an offer in the region of £60m for the England international.
The 27-year-old, who is also a top target for Tottenham Hotspur, has emerged as a priority for Mikel Arteta, particularly after forward Kai Havertz sustained a knee injury.
Arsenal believe Eze’s versatility and creativity would provide immediate cover and strengthen their attacking options.
Talks between Spurs and Palace had gathered momentum in recent days, but no agreement was reached and Arsenal have now entered the race aggressively, with sporting director Andrea Berta spearheading negotiations.
According to transfer expert David Ornstein, Arsenal are close to agreeing a package worth over £60m, which would effectively hijack Tottenham’s move as Eze is also keen on the move.
Eze, who scored 14 goals across all competitions last season and netted the winner in Palace’s FA Cup final victory over Manchester City, has reportedly made clear his desire to join Arsenal before the transfer window closes on 1 September.
His previous release clause, set at £60m plus £8m in add-ons, has expired, but Palace are expected to hold out for a similar valuation.
Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner confirmed on Wednesday that both Eze and Liverpool-linked Marc Guehi will feature in Thursday’s UEFA Conference League play-off against Fredrikstad, stressing the pair remain “committed to the team.”
Palace, however, are preparing contingencies, the South London club want to bring in Leicester City’s Bilal El Khannouss as a replacement for Eze, though talks have slowed as they await clarity on the Arsenal negotiations.
The situation leaves Tottenham blindsided, having believed they were progressing positively in discussions.
With Arsenal now pushing to finalise the transfer quickly, Spurs could be forced to turn their attention to alternative targets, especially after Manchester City ruled out a move for winger Savinho.
If Arsenal succeed, the Gunners will not only secure one of the Premier League’s most dynamic attackers but also land a significant psychological blow on their North London rivals.