BREAKING NEWS LIVE : Patrick Vieira has told Arsenal why they must complete dream £68m transfer before Man City

Latest Arsenal transfer news as Eberechi Eze has already received a glowing reference from one of the Gunners’ all-time favourites

Crystal Palace star Eberechi Eze is on the crust of a big-money move that would elevate him into one of the Premier League’s best players. The England international has caught the eye with his dazzling performances at Selhurst Park over the past two years.

Eze, 26, joined Palace from Queens Park Rangers in 2020 after impressing in the second tier of English football. He has made over 120 appearances for the Eagles and is now their most valuable asset after Michael Olise left for Bayern Munich.

Tottenham have been linked with the attacking midfielder over the last 18 months, while Arsenal have also been monitoring his progress. Recently, it was reported that Manchester City were considering a move for the £68million-rated player as they weighed up their options to replace Kevin De Bruyne.

Eze has three years left on his deal in south London and is understood to have a £60m release clause plus add-ons. Mikel Arteta already has one of the best in that position with Martin Odegaard, but a move for Eze makes perfect sense.

Emile Smith Rowe has been the subject of an unsuccessful bid by Palace this month. The academy graduate is facing an uncertain future at the Emirates Stadium, having lost his place in Arteta’s first-choice plans due to form and injuries.

As well as playing in wide positions, Eze would be a significant improvement to the depth in the Gunners squad. Should Smith Rowe and/or Reiss Nelson depart, a new attack-minded midfielder will be the priority for Edu Gaspar.