Crystal Palace’s forward Eberechi Eze was asked about rumors linking him with a move to Arsenal following Sunday’s Community Shield at Wembley.
Eberechi Eze, who scored in Crystal Palace’s FA Cup win in May, was named in Oliver Glasner’s starting XI for Sunday’s season opener.
Crystal Palace twice fell behind against Arne Slot’s new-look Liverpool at the home of football but fought back to equalise each time through goals from Jean-Philippe Mateta and Ismaila Sarr.
For the third consecutive season, the Community Shield was settled by a penalty shootout, and although Eze missed from the spot, Palace triumphed thanks to two crucial saves from Dean Henderson.
Palace then climbed the 107 steps to collect the trophy and celebrate their triumph, but attention quickly shifted to the future of their star player.
As the England man descended the stairs, a fan asked him about the speculation linking him with a potential move to the Emirates.
Eze met the supporter’s gaze for a moment, then appeared to smile at the comment before continuing on his way.
The gesture has prompted some fans on social media to claim that Eze will head to north London this summer to join Mikel Arteta’s side. The Gunners have had a productive transfer window following their third consecutive third-place Premier League finish, securing signings such as Martin Zubimendi and £64 million striker Viktor Gyökeres.
Eze’s £68 million release clause reportedly expired earlier this month, leaving Palace free to set any price they chose for their prized asset.
Reports indicate that Arsenal rate Eze at less than the £68 million mark, but Palace chairman Steve Parish may reduce his valuation later in the window if he fears the player could let his contract run into its final year. However, Eze remains a key target for the club, with reports claiming that Arsenal’s recent spending will not prevent them from pursuing the 27-year-old.
Last season, Eze scored eight goals and provided eight assists in the Premier League, helping Glasner’s side secure a 12th-place finish.
The chances of Eze leaving Crystal Palace
Eze’s exit would be a major blow for Palace, who also face the risk of losing captain Marc Guehi, with the centre-back linked to a move to Liverpool.
Last season, Eze scored eight goals and provided eight assists in the Premier League, helping Glasner’s side secure a 12th-place finish. Meanwhile last season’s eagles top goalscorer Mateta is also being monitored by a number of clubs.
A £60 million deal for Eze would see Arsenal’s summer spending, including the signing of Gyökeres, surpass the £250 million mark. The North London side have also added Noni Madueke, Cristhian Mosquera, Kepa Arrizabalaga, and Christian Norgaard to their ranks this summer.
The Gunners will begin their Premier League campaign on Sunday with a trip to Old Trafford to face Ruben Amorim’s Manchester United.
