Arsenal are set to sign Crystal Palace star Eberechi Eze in a deal worth over £60 million, edging out north London rivals Tottenham Hotspur in one of the summer’s biggest transfer twists.
Reports on Wednesday revealed that Arsenal have reached an agreement in principle with Palace, matching the fee close to Eze’s £68 million release clause. The Gunners moved swiftly after Kai Havertz suffered a knee injury that could keep him out for weeks.
The 26-year-old England international, who was once released by Arsenal as a teenager, could now make a dramatic return to the Emirates.
Palace manager Oliver Glasner confirmed that Eze remains focused despite the growing transfer noise.
“Before Chelsea, I think many of you were surprised that Marc and Ebs started and played almost the whole game,” Glasner said during his press conference.
“Most of you will be surprised that they will start again tomorrow because of all the rumours. But again, they are committed.”
Glasner praised both Eze and captain Marc Guehi, who has also been linked with a move away.
“They are committed to the team, they have a contract here, they played a crucial part that we could be so successful, and they will play a crucial part as long as they are here,” he added.
“This noise, these rumours, it’s not just for three days, it’s been written for weeks.”
Arsenal, who finished second behind Liverpool last season, are strengthening their squad as they prepare another Premier League title push. Spurs, despite winning the Europa League, ended last season just above the relegation zone, making Arsenal the more attractive destination for Eze.
