Eze's Arsenal Move Hangs in Balance as Release Clause Expires

Eberechi Eze of Crystal Palace sees his release clause expire before the Premier League starts as Arsenal remain keen on deal (Image: Sebastian Frej/Getty Images)

The player is understood to be very keen on a move to Arsenal and is thought to have prioritised the Gunners over other potential destinations this summer. Ethan Nwaneri, who has agreed a new contract with the club, securing his future, has given the Gunners freedom to be patient on any move.

A deal for Eze is believed to be separate from any potential exit of either of Arsenal’s two left wingers, Leandro Trossard and Gabriel Martinelli. However, Arsenal would look to move on their fringe talents like Fabio Vieira, Albert Sambi Lokonga and Karl Hein in the hope of freeing up space on the wage bill and continuing to work comfortably within UEFA’s Financial Fair Play regulations.

The expiration of Eze's release clause is not understood to be a concern to Arsenal. Palace have a valuation of the player regardless, and there remains hope that the South London club’s stance could soften later in the window, with the player keen to move and the need to find a replacement with the fee secured from the England international’s exit.

Arsenal are also interested in other attacking players, such as Rodrygo and Anthony Gordon. However, any moves for a left-sided player would be tied to the futures of Trossard and Martinelli.