Report: Arsenal weighing move before Crystal Palace star’s clause deadline | OneFootball

Report: Arsenal eye Crystal Palace star with release clause deadline looming

Eze interest intensifies in North London

Arsenal’s pursuit of Crystal Palace forward Eberechi Eze has been given a subtle boost, with chairman Steve Parish accepting that departures are part of the natural cycle at Selhurst Park. The 26-year-old, a key figure for the Eagles, has attracted sustained attention this summer as the Gunners look to add further attacking depth.

Eze’s contract contains a £68 million release clause, but that provision is set to expire on 15 August. Should Arsenal wish to secure his services at that figure, they have just days to act. Once the clause lapses, Palace will be under no obligation to sell for that price — and may demand a significantly higher fee.

Speaking after Palace’s Community Shield victory over Liverpool, Parish acknowledged the realities of modern football:

Squad depth at the heart of Arsenal’s transfer thinking

Arsenal’s transfer activity this summer has been strategic, with an emphasis on building a squad capable of challenging on multiple fronts. Eze’s ability to operate across attacking positions appeals to Mikel Arteta’s system, offering versatility and creativity.

Former Arsenal midfielder Ray Parlour has voiced support for the potential signing, suggesting that Eze could represent the club’s final move of the summer window. Speaking to talkSPORT, Parlour stressed the importance of depth:

Parlour also highlighted the value of rotation, pointing to the demanding fixture schedule that awaits the Gunners. His comments echo the broader consensus that Eze’s arrival could enhance Arsenal’s attacking balance.

Release clause timing adds urgency

With just a short window before the clause expires, the decision for Arsenal is a tactical one. Moving swiftly could save millions, while hesitation risks entering a drawn-out negotiation with a club under no financial pressure to sell.

Crystal Palace have been here before — managing interest in key players while maintaining a competitive squad. Yet with Parish openly admitting the inevitability of departures, the prospect of Eze moving on feels increasingly plausible.

Potential impact of a move

Should Eze trade South London for North London, the implications for both clubs would be significant. Arsenal would gain a dynamic forward at the peak of his powers, capable of influencing tight matches and contributing across competitions. Palace, meanwhile, would face the challenge of replacing both his creativity and goal threat in the final third.

While no official bid has been confirmed, the coming days could prove decisive. For Arsenal, the calculation is clear — act before the 15 August deadline or risk paying a premium in the final weeks of the window.