‘Crystal Palace prepare for Ebere Eze exit as James McAtee interest increases’
Crystal Palace are gearing themselves up to part company with Ebere Eze amid their heightened interest in James McAtee.
Thanks to his successful exploits in Palace colours, Eze has attracted interest from Arsenal, who must add more quality to their ranks to win their first Premier League title since 2004.
The England international scored 14 goals for the Eagles last term, including the winning goal in their FA Cup triumph over Manchester City.
Palace would like to retain the 27-year-old’s services, but are facing an uphill battle as Bayern Munich want to sign Eze, according to former Manchester United and Blackburn Rovers chief scout Mick Brown in a Football Insider exclusive.
Crystal Palace set to replace Eze with McAtee
The South London club could lose their Europa League place as UEFA believe Palace have breached their ownership rules.
In that eventuality, Oliver Glasner would boast even less chance of retaining Eze, who is worthy of playing at an elite level.
Meanwhile, Tottenham are among the parties interested in Eze after qualifying for the Champions League via their Europa League success.
But the South Londoners are set to soften the blow of losing their star man amid their interest in Manchester City ace McAtee.
Sky Sports revealed via X on Thursday, 10 July: “Nottingham Forest and Crystal Palace are among the Premier League clubs considering Manchester City’s James McAtee this summer, Sky Sports News understands.”
Palace move would be ideal for McAtee
McAtee showcased his talent by captaining the England Under-21s to European Championship glory this summer, notching one goal and two assists in the tournament.
| James McAtee stats | All competitions 2024/25 |
| Appearances | 27 |
| Goals | 7 |
| Assists | 0 |
But he endured a lack of game time at Man City last season, making just three starts in the Premier League for Pep Guardiola’s men.
However, once Eze leaves Selhurst Park, there will be a clear vacancy in attacking midfield for McAtee to fill, and he should shine for Glasner’s men.
Even though he was handed just 15 Premier League appearances by Guardiola last term, making 12 outings as a substitute, he showed his class by scoring three goals in the top flight.
Furthermore, when the 22-year-old enjoyed more game time during his loan spell with Sheffield United in 2023/24, he managed a respectable return of five goals and four assists even though the Blades were relegated to the Championship at the end of a woeful season.