Gunners
Arsenal’s Strategic Play for Eberechi Eze: A Swap Deal to Secure a Premier League Star
Arsenal’s ambitious transfer window shows no signs of slowing down as the Gunners set their sights on Crystal Palace’s dynamic attacking midfielder, Eberechi Eze. With nearly £200 million already invested in new signings this summer, including Martin Zubimendi, Noni Madueke, Christian Norgaard, and Viktor Gyokeres, manager Mikel Arteta is determined to bolster his squad further in pursuit of ending Arsenal’s two-decade-long Premier League title drought. Eze, a versatile and proven Premier League talent, has emerged as Arteta’s preferred target to add flair and creativity to the attacking unit. However, with a hefty £68 million release clause standing in the way, Arsenal are reportedly considering a clever swap deal to make the transfer more financially viable.
✍️ Gabriel
— now.arsenal (@now_arsenaI) July 22, 2025
✍️ Ethan Nwaneri
✍️ Myles Lewis-Skelly
✅ Viktor Gyokeres
✅ Christhian Mosquera
✅ Kepa
✅ Martin Zubimendi
✅ Christian Norgaard
✅ Noni Madueke
Andrea Berta is cooking and he’s not finished yet… pic.twitter.com/yL11r9o9sC
Eze's Rise
Eze’s rise to prominence at Crystal Palace has been nothing short of remarkable. The 27-year-old England international played a pivotal role in Palace’s historic FA Cup triumph last season, showcasing his ability to deliver in high-stakes moments. His versatility—capable of playing as a No. 10, No. 8, or on the left wing—combined with his dribbling, vision, and goal-scoring prowess, makes him an ideal fit for Arteta’s fluid tactical system. Eze’s familiarity with Arsenal, having been part of their academy as a boy, adds an emotional layer to the potential move, with reports suggesting he is keen to return to his former club and compete for major trophies.
Eberechi Eze fired @CPFC to their first major trophy, sealing a win over @ManCity in the #EmiratesFACup Final 🏆 pic.twitter.com/9ERlRtr4fb
— Emirates FA Cup (@EmiratesFACup) May 18, 2025
However, the £68 million buyout clause in Eze’s contract has proven to be a stumbling block. Arsenal, cautious about their spending after a busy transfer window, are reluctant to meet Palace’s valuation outright. To navigate this financial hurdle, the Gunners are exploring the possibility of a part-exchange deal involving Leandro Trossard, a dependable squad player who could serve as a direct replacement for Eze at Selhurst Park.
🚨 Arsenal have a genuine interest in Eberechi Eze, but have so far shown NO inclination of triggering his £68m release clause. Well-placed sources are also indicating that Arsenal would prefer to sell a forward before making any formal move for Eze.
— afcstuff (@afcstuff) July 31, 2025
There is also a feeling at… pic.twitter.com/IMR2ZJXPGE
Trossard to Palace?
Trossard, who joined Arsenal from Brighton in January 2023, has been a reliable option for Arteta, contributing goals and assists with his versatility across the front line. However, at 30 years old, Trossard is three years older than Eze and arguably less dynamic than the Palace star at this stage of their careers. Eze’s superior ball-carrying ability, creativity, and potential for growth make him a significant upgrade, aligning with Arsenal’s long-term vision of building a squad capable of challenging for the Premier League title. A swap deal could lower Eze’s transfer fee, benefiting all parties: Arsenal would secure their target, Palace would gain an experienced Premier League attacker, and Trossard would likely receive regular playing time.
Palace's Position
The proposed deal is not without its challenges. Crystal Palace, despite their relegation to the UEFA Conference League, are under no immediate financial pressure to sell Eze, who is contracted until 2027. Manager Oliver Glasner has publicly urged the club to retain their star players, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a competitive squad for the upcoming season. Additionally, a 15 percent sell-on clause owed to Eze’s former club, Queens Park Rangers, could complicate negotiations, potentially netting QPR around £7.5 million if the full release clause is triggered.
Arsenal’s interest in Eze comes at a time when their squad is undergoing a significant transformation. The arrivals of Gyokeres and Madueke have strengthened the forward line, while Zubimendi and Norgaard add depth and quality to the midfield. However, Arteta’s pursuit of Eze signals his desire for a game-changer in the final third, someone capable of unlocking defenses and creating chances for the likes of Gyokeres and Bukayo Saka. Eze’s 25 goal contributions (goals and assists) in the Premier League last season underline his ability to deliver at the highest level, making him a prime candidate to elevate Arsenal’s attack.
Arsenal's Transfer Strategy
The Gunners’ transfer strategy this summer has been bold, but their success in securing Eze could hinge on their ability to negotiate a favorable deal with Palace. A swap involving Trossard could be the key to unlocking the transfer, allowing Arsenal to manage their budget while adding a player who could prove to be the final piece in their title-chasing puzzle. As the transfer window nears its climax, all eyes will be on the Emirates to see if Arteta and sporting director Andrea Berta can pull off this masterstroke.
For Arsenal fans, the prospect of Eze donning the red and white is an exciting one. A player with his skill set, combined with the emotional narrative of a homecoming, could galvanize the squad and supporters alike. If Arsenal can navigate the financial and logistical challenges, Eze’s arrival could mark a defining moment in their quest to reclaim Premier League glory.
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