FootballTransfers understands that Arsenal are considering placing a bid for Crystal Palace star Eberechi Eze after cooling their interest in Real Madrid winger Rodrygo.
We are told that Arsenal have put their pursuit of the Brazilian superstar on ice for now as they are unwilling to waste any more time waiting for him to make a decision on his Real Madrid future.
As we previously revealed, Arsenal have held positive talks with Los Blancos, but on Thursday, the decision was made to move on from Rodrygo as bringing in a winger is seen as a priority by the Gunners hierarchy.
Aston Villa attacker Morgan Rogers and Crystal Palace star Eberechi Eze are both seen as key to strengthening Arsenal’s attacking depth ahead of a crucial Premier League and Champions League campaign next season.
Arsenal step up Eze interest
Despite growing media speculation that personal terms with Eze have already been agreed, FootballTransfers understands that no such agreement is currently in place.
As we exclusively revealed at the time, Arsenal held preliminary talks with Eze’s representatives last summer, but discussions stalled due to some Profitability and Sustainability Rules concerns and Palace’s insistence on receiving the majority of his £68 million (€79.5m) release clause upfront.
Those questioned on the matter have expressed doubts about reports claiming that Palace are now open to accepting Eze’s release clause in three instalments.
However, one influential factor this time around could be Eze’s close relationship with Bukayo Saka. The pair, both England internationals, are known to be good friends and are regularly seen together off the pitch. Sources suggest that Saka has privately encouraged Eze to make the move to the Emirates.
We are also told that Arsenal are currently in internal discussions over an opening bid for Eze, although it is too early to say if an offer will indeed be placed, with the North London club still exploring the full conditions of a potential deal.
Last week, we revealed that Aston Villa are growing increasingly concerned about Arsenal’s escalating interest in Rogers, and that the Villans themselves are interested in Eze should their star attacker be poached.
Arsenal’s strategy is now clearly defined. With their previous foreign target currently off the table for now, the focus is firmly on Premier League-proven talent.
Football transfer news headlines today
The FootballTransfers app
Check out FootballTransfers’ new app for all of football’s big storylines, transfer rumours and exclusive news in one convenient place directly on your mobile device.
The FootballTransfers app is available on Google Play and in the Apple App Store. Download here:
