ARSENAL PLOT SHOCK EZE HI-JACK! GUNNERS TARGET PALACE STAR AS AFFORDABLE RODRYGO ALTERNATIVE
Gunners Eye Crystal Palace Star as Cheaper Rodrygo Alternative
Arsenal have made a dramatic entrance into the race for Eberechi Eze, as Mikel Arteta’s side looks to beat arch-rivals Tottenham Hotspur to the signing of the Crystal Palace playmaker. The 26-year-old England international, who starred in the 2024/25 season, is now at the center of a high-stakes North London tug-of-war.
Arsenal Shift Focus Amid Rodrygo Complications
The Gunners have long admired Rodrygo Goes, but negotiations with Real Madrid have hit a wall due to the Spanish giants’ €90 million valuation. As a result, Arsenal are exploring alternatives—and Eze has quickly moved to the top of the list. With a £68 million release clause, the Palace star is seen as a more financially viable and Premier League-proven option.
Sources close to the Emirates suggest that technical director Edu has already initiated informal contact with Eze’s representatives. While no formal offer has been made, Arsenal’s growing interest is genuine and gathering pace.
North London Rivalry Reignited
Tottenham, who have been tracking Eze for several months, are now under pressure to accelerate their move. Spurs manager Thomas Frank is reportedly keen on reshaping his midfield with a creative spark, and Eze fits the profile perfectly. However, their delay could prove costly.
Arsenal, on the other hand, see Eze as a dynamic addition who could provide versatility, vision, and goal threat from midfield—traits Arteta values highly as he prepares to evolve his squad for another title challenge and Champions League push.
Eze’s Stock Rising
After an injury-hit start to his career at Selhurst Park, Eze has developed into one of the Premier League’s most technically gifted and intelligent attackers. In the 2024/25 season, he contributed 8 goals and 8 assists, consistently delivering in high-pressure moments, including standout performances against top-six sides.
His performances at Euro 2024 with England further boosted his reputation, with scouts from multiple top clubs reportedly monitoring him throughout the tournament.
Price Tag and Contract Situation
Crystal Palace are firm on their stance—Eze will not leave for less than the £68 million buyout clause included in his latest contract extension signed last summer. The South London club are also reluctant to lose their talisman unless the full amount is paid upfront or structured with favourable terms.
Arsenal, though financially healthy, would prefer a flexible payment schedule, especially if they also pursue a top winger or defensive midfielder this summer.
What Happens Next?
The next few weeks could be decisive. While Tottenham have done the groundwork, Arsenal’s late entry could unsettle the process. Eze is known to be open to a move that keeps him in London and allows him to compete in the Champions League—something Spurs cannot currently offer.
If Real Madrid hold firm on Rodrygo’s price, expect Arsenal to shift full focus to Eze, pushing hard to get a deal done before preseason begins.
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