Arsenal are reportedly lining up a bid for Crystal Palace midfielder Eberechi Eze while simultaneously continuing negotiations with Sporting CP for striker Viktor Gyokeres. The Gunners are keen to bolster their attacking options and inject more creativity into their midfield ahead of the upcoming season.
Arsenal's interest in Eze stems from a desire to add a dynamic and technically gifted player to their ranks. The 25-year-old has impressed with his performances for Crystal Palace, showcasing his dribbling ability, creative passing, and knack for drawing fouls. Mikel Arteta believes Eze's qualities could provide the "instant spark" needed to unlock deep defenses, complementing Arsenal's existing attacking quartet. Eze's ability to navigate crowded midfield spaces and thread passes could offer Arsenal a different dimension in attack. Crystal Palace values Eze at around £45 million, making him one of their leading domestic midfield targets. Arsenal are said to be preparing a bid with bonuses to meet Palace's demands and open formal negotiations. Eze is reportedly open to joining Arsenal and attracted by the project at the Emirates. Liverpool may also express interest, but Eze's preference is believed to be Arsenal.
Meanwhile, Arsenal are also actively pursuing Viktor Gyokeres to solve their need for a prolific striker. Talks with Sporting CP are progressing, and the Swedish international has reportedly agreed to personal terms on a five-year contract until 2030. Gyokeres is eager to join Arsenal and has rejected interest from other clubs like Manchester United and Juventus. The 27-year-old has been in contact with his agent "every hour to be informed" about the progress of the transfer. Since joining Sporting in 2023, Gyokeres has scored 97 goals in 102 appearances, establishing himself as one of Europe's most prolific strikers. Arsenal's manager, Mikel Arteta, is pushing for a swift conclusion to the negotiations as the team's return to pre-season training approaches.
However, Sporting CP are proving difficult to negotiate with, insisting on a total package of around £70 million. Arsenal are aiming for a payment structure that involves installments to match Crystal Palace's payment terms. Gyokeres is reportedly willing to sacrifice a significant amount of his wages to facilitate his move to Arsenal.
Arsenal's pursuit of Gyokeres intensified after frustrations with RB Leipzig over Benjamin Sesko. The Gunners' new Sporting Director, Andrea Berta, is a long-time admirer of Gyokeres. Despite the higher price tag and the hardline stance of the Portuguese club, Arsenal have advanced on that deal right now because of frustrations with Leipzig over Benjamin Sesko.
Arsenal have already completed the signing of Martin Zubimendi. Christian Norgaard's announcement is imminent. Arsenal are also reportedly preparing an opening bid for Noni Madueke from Chelsea.