Fabrizio Romano Confirms Arsenal are ‘Expected’ to Move to Sign £67.5m Forward | OneFootball

Arsenal’s Pursuit of Eze Moves to Negotiation Stage

Clause Expires as Gunners Maintain Interest

Arsenal’s long-standing admiration for Crystal Palace’s Eberechi Eze has entered a decisive phase. As Fabrizio Romano revealed on his YouTube channel, the player’s release clause has now expired, meaning that any deal will now require direct negotiations with Palace.

“In the next 24 hours the disclose of Eberechi Eze will expire. So basically Arsenal from today on can’t can’t go pay the clause and get the player. It will take a negotiation with Crystal Palace,” Romano explained.

The Gunners have reportedly maintained months of contact with Eze’s representatives. “They spoke to the player several times and the player is also very keen on a move. So Palace expect Arsenal to arrive.”

Romano also clarified that contrary to some speculation, talks between the clubs have not yet begun. “According to my sources, this negotiation club to club has not started yet… But sources at Crystal Palace expect Arsenal to arrive for Eze.”

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Eze’s Versatility and End Product

Eze’s appeal is clear. Last season, the 27-year-old registered 15 goals and 11 assists for Palace. His technical elegance, eye for goal and ability to carry the ball make him one of the Premier League’s most entertaining and effective attacking midfielders.

Able to operate centrally or on the left, Eze brings a versatility that would serve Mikel Arteta’s fluid system well. He could rotate with Martin Ødegaard or challenge for a wide position against the likes of Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard. His inclusion would undoubtedly add unpredictability and flair to Arsenal’s attacking patterns.

Palace Expect Approach Despite Clause Removal

With Eze’s clause no longer active, Palace hold more control over any potential exit. However, Romano made it clear that internally, they are braced for a move from North London. “Arsenal have been in contact for months now with the agents of Eze… Arsenal still want to add the player if they will have the opportunity to.”

There is no sign of Palace pushing to keep him at all costs, but their negotiating stance is now strengthened. The reported price before the clause expiry stood at £60 million. Whether that figure shifts now that a clause no longer dictates the terms remains to be seen.

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Timing Now Critical for Arsenal

With the new season rapidly approaching and squad depth a growing priority, Arsenal may need to accelerate their approach. Romano’s comments underline that Arsenal are still at the planning stage of their next move, but with the player keen and Palace ready, the next step will be about timing and finances.

“Let’s see when, let’s see how this conversation will go,” Romano said. “Let’s see financially what they can do. But… Arsenal remain absolutely interested in the player.”

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

For Arsenal fans, the idea of Eberechi Eze in red and white is genuinely exciting. With the club competing on multiple fronts, depth and creativity will be vital. Eze brings that in abundance.

His 15 goals and 11 assists last season make a strong case for inclusion in any top-four squad. More than just statistics though, it’s his style of play that would complement Arsenal. He glides past players, plays between the lines and has a flair that we occasionally lack, especially when Odegaard is subdued or when Saka and Martinelli are doubled up.

At 27, he is ready to make the jump. He is not a prospect, he is Premier League proven. The fact that Arsenal have already spoken with him and that he’s “keen on a move” shows the groundwork is done.

From a financial perspective, the expired release clause is unfortunate, but if the club believes in him, they must press ahead. Arsenal have missed out on talents in the past by hesitating. Eze has the potential to lift this side another level. It is time to turn admiration into action.