As Arsenal work to finalise a deal for Noni Madueke and continue discussions for Viktor Gyökeres, attention has now turned to Crystal Palace’s Eberechi Eze. The England international, notably absent from the club’s new kit unveiling, has further fuelled speculation surrounding his future and a potential move to North London.
football.london reports that Eze is open to joining Arsenal, although the Gunners are hoping to negotiate a lower fee than his reported £67.5 million release clause. Reducing the cost of the deal would allow Arsenal to retain financial flexibility for other signings this summer. Eze, though, would offer more than just value—his skillset could address several weaknesses in Mikel Arteta’s squad.
Boosting depth and competition in midfield
One of the biggest gaps Eze could fill is in central midfield. Martin Ødegaard struggled throughout last season, hindered by an ankle injury sustained during the international break and further impacted by illness midway through the campaign. These issues led to inconsistent performances and raised questions over his form.
Bringing in Eze would give Arsenal a quality alternative who could both complement and challenge Ødegaard. His presence would offer Arteta the ability to rest the captain without a drop in quality, potentially preventing a recurrence of last season’s struggles. With a player of Eze’s calibre pushing for minutes, it could elevate Ødegaard’s game while easing his workload.
Adding variation on the left and unexpected threats
On the left flank, Arsenal’s options—Leandro Trossard and Gabriel Martinelli—have sometimes been predictable. Opposing teams often contain the threat by forcing them onto their weaker foot, limiting their impact. Eze, who isn’t a traditional winger, would bring a new dynamic to that side of the pitch.
As more of an inside forward, Eze could exploit spaces differently and combine with a potential signing like Gyökeres to create unpredictable attacking patterns. His flair and creativity would add an extra layer to Arsenal’s offensive tactics.
Eze’s ability to score from distance or pop up unexpectedly in key areas also gives Arsenal a much-needed spark during difficult matches. While Bukayo Saka has carried much of that burden, having another player capable of game-changing moments from seemingly low-threat situations would strengthen the team’s resilience in tight contests.
