Crystal Palace’s Eberechi Eze reacts to Jean-Philippe Mateta amid Arsenal links
Arsenal target Eberechi Eze has responded to Crystal Palace team mate Jean-Philippe Mateta following his latest social media post.
Eze has a £68m release clause in his contract and the Gunners are weighing up whether to move for the midfielder.
Mikel Arteta is close to signing Sporting striker Viktor Gyokeres, but he wants to increase his forward options further with Chelsea’s Noni Madueke also a target.
Eze joined Palace in 2020 from London rivals QPR, and scored the winning goal in the FA Cup final last season to clinch the Eagles’ first ever major trophy.
Mateta video sparks Eze reaction
Palace fan favourite Mateta has enjoyed a resurgence at the club under current manager Oliver Glasner.
The 28-year-old was Palace’s top scorer in the Premier League with 14 goals as the Eagles finished 12th in the table.
Mateta took to Instagram (9 July) to share a video of his post-season adventures, which was liked by team mate Eze.
The striker has previously been linked with a move to Manchester United, so the Frenchman could possibly be also following Eze out of Selhurst Park.
Palace awaiting crucial verdicts
Football Insider Verdict
The departure of Eze from Palace looks inevitable this summer and Glasner will have to use the funds wisely to strengthen his squad.
A lack of transfer activity so far in South London may be down to the club still not knowing whether they will be playing in Europe next season.
Palace are still awaiting UEFA’s verdict over whether they will be able to take part in the Europa League following their FA Cup triumph due to ownership rules.
Playing in Europe means Glasner will require more depth to his squad to compete on all fronts.
Arsenal look the most likely destination for Eze, but Spurs are also interested and they could offer the 27-year-old a greater guarantee on playing time whilst Bayern Munich have joined the race following their Club World Cup exertions.
| Appearances | 43 |
| Goals | 14 |
| Assists | 11 |
Wherever Eze ends up his technical ability, creativity and flair will be a welcome addition to any side.
Glasner may need more than one signing to soften the blow of such a crucial player departing as Eze’s attacking influence is crucial to how his side play.