Arsenal have told Eberechi Eze’s representatives that they will only move for the Crystal Palace star if they can first sell players in similar positions, Sporting News understands.
The Gunners admire the 27-year-old’s ability to carry the ball through midfield and break down tight defences, but senior figures at Emirates Stadium are concerned the squad already has too many players in Eze’s position.
Leandro Trossard, Fabio Vieira and Reiss Nelson are all seen as occupying similar attacking midfield or wide roles, and the board has made it clear that at least one departure will be needed before they sanction an approach.
Sporting director Andrea Berta also has reservations over the resale value of a high-fee purchase for Eze, given Palace are likely to demand a premium fee for one of their key players.
While the player’s camp has been kept informed of Arsenal’s interest, there isn’t expected to be a formal offer made for the star forward until squad space is created.
That stance leaves the door open for Tottenham, who have made a firm decision to push ahead with their own interest.
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Thomas Frank is a long-term admirer and sees Eze as a natural fit for his high-tempo, attacking system.
Tottenham also have a strong relationship with the player’s representatives, having done hundreds of deals with the north London giants during the Daniel Levy era.
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Meanwhile, Liverpool have held talks with Palace over defender Marc Guehi but remain far apart on valuation, and the England centre-back is seeking assurances over regular game time ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
He is understood to be prepared to run down his contract if a move cannot be agreed.
Palace chairman Steve Parish refused to be drawn on either player’s situation following the Community Shield win over Liverpool.
“Yeah, of course, but listen, players come and go in football clubs,” he told Hayters TV.
“It’s a life cycle, isn’t it? Hopefully, they’ll still be here, that’s what I’d like. But we’ll see.”
Former Arsenal winger Theo Walcott recently urged Eze to stay put for now, telling the It’s Called Soccer podcast that a strong season at Selhurst Park could secure his place in England’s World Cup squad and potentially open doors to even bigger moves next summer.
