Eberechi Eze reaction speaks volumes as Arsenal transfer presented to Crystal Palace star

Eberechi Eze to Arsenal links simply won’t go away, with three weeks remaining in the summer transfer window.

It’s been a busy summer so far for the Gunners, with several high-profile additions, including Martin Zubimendi and Viktor Gyokeres. Having missed out on the Premier League title to Liverpool last season, it’s a crucial campaign ahead for Mikel Arteta ’s side as they look to fulfil their potential.

Widespread reports suggest Eze has a £68 million release clause in his Crystal Palace contract, which expires this week on August 15. However, rumours indicate Arsenal may need to free up space in their squad through sales before being able to finalise a deal for the England international, which is something that may not happen this week.

In the meantime, Eze continued his pre-season preparations with Palace over the weekend. The Eagles narrowly beat Liverpool on penalties in the Community Shield clash at Wembley Stadium on Sunday, having qualified following their FA Cup triumph last season.

After a 2-2 draw in 90 minutes, the match went straight to penalties with no extra-time. Eze saw his spot-kick saved by Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson but ultimately ended up on the winning side, as Palace edged a 3-2 victory.

Following the celebrations, as the Palace squad made their way down the steps at Wembley and back onto the pitch, the prospect of joining Arsenal was put to the player. A clip that has since gone viral on social media showed Eze respond to the question with a slight smile, which understandably caught the attention of Arsenal fans.

Although this saga has dragged on throughout the summer, the player himself appears completely relaxed about the situation. The 27-year-old still has two years remaining on his deal at Selhurst Park, but a switch to the Emirates Stadium would represent a major step up, as well as a chance to play Champions League football as he enters the prime of his career.

Speaking after the game, Palace chairman Steve Parish gave the clearest hint yet that there are no guarantees Eze will remain at the club by the end of the window. There is also speculation over captain Marc Guehi’s future, with just one year left on his contract. Both players' futures were addressed post-match.

"Yeah listen, of course but players come and go in football clubs you know," Parish said. "I mean it’s a life cycle isn’t it you know. Hopefully they’re still here, that’s what I’d like but we’ll see."

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