Eberechi Eze’s £68m release clause is set to expire today with Arsenal still interested in a move for the Crystal Palace star, according to reports.
Eze, strongly linked with Arsenal, has indicated he is keen on a move to the Emirates and agreeing personal terms is unlikely to be a significant issue.
But Arsenal and Palace have been unable to agree on a transfer fee – with the Gunners hoping to strike a deal below Palace’s asking price for Eze.
The BBC reports that Eze’s £68m release clause expires today (August 1) – two weeks before the new Premier League season begins on August 15.
Arsenal believe Palace will be open to negotiating a lower price later in the summer transfer window to avoid Eze entering the final year of his deal.
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Eze has established himself as one of the best attacking midfielders in the Premier League, helping Palace clinch a historic FA Cup trophy last term.
The 27-year-old has played a total of 167 games for Palace to date, conjuring up 40 goals and 28 assists for the south London club.
Arsenal need Eberechi Eze this summer
Analysis from Sports Editor James Goldman…
It was almost impressive that after spending nearly £200m on new blood that the Gunners looked so distinctly recognisable in their 1-0 pre-season defeat to Tottenham on Thursday.
A lack of invention and reliance on Bukayo Saka, allied to the traditional Gabriel Martinelli off, Leandro Trossard on substitution had fans despairing.
It’s obvious why Arsenal supporters are crying out for Eberechi Eze.
It’s thought that Arsenal are looking to sell a forward before making a formal move for Eze.
The north Londoners still have plenty of time to get a deal over the line with the summer transfer window remaining open until September 1.
Arsenal feel Eze’s best position is when he operates as a No.10 but also view him as a versatile attacking player who can be deployed on the left.
Palace boss reveals transfer concern amid Eze speculation
Palace manager Oliver Glasner is hopeful Eze will not join Arsenal this summer, as he took aim at the Eagles’ lack of transfer activity.
Speaking to local newspaper Kronen Zeitung, Glasner said: ‘Even though all the players are still here, we haven’t made the most of the transfer window so far
‘I was promised that we would be more active and bring in the new players earlier this year.
‘As of now, I have 17 outfield players. I hope we don’t lose any more. If that happens and we get four new ones on deadline day like last year, another false start is possible.’
It should be noted that Palace chairman Steve Parish has currently shown no indication he would be open to negotiating a lower price for Eze.
