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Arsenal has been cautioned that Marc Guehi's potential transfer to Liverpool could obstruct its chances of signing Crystal Palace star Eberechi Eze – particularly if Arne Slot's team finalizes a deal first. It is widely expected that the Gunners will place a bid for Eze before the transfer window closes.
Mikel Arteta's squad has already bolstered in crucial areas this summer, finally securing a forward in the form of Viktor Gyokeres and adding Martin Zubimendi, Noni Madueke, Cristhian Mosquera and Christian Norgaard, as well as backup goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga.
However, the well-known interest in Eze continues. It is expected that, once the 27-year-old's release clause expires on Friday, the Gunners' pursuit will intensify. But they have now received a warning regarding Palace captain Guehi and his potential switch to Liverpool.
It is reported that Eze's release clause expires on Friday. This clause would permit a club to enter negotiations with the player for a fee of $79 million (£60m) plus approximately $11M (£8m) in add-ons.
Arsenal has notified its London rivals that it will not be activating said clause, instead waiting until it can offload some players first, even though Eze is eager for a move to the Emirates.
However, if Guehi leaves Selhurst Park – potentially for Liverpool – before any deal for Eze is finalized, Arsenal could encounter a snag. In such a scenario, it's anticipated that the Eagles might be reluctant to let another star player go, making a move for Eze even more complex.
Guehi is in his final year of contract in south London and has informed the club this summer that he won't be signing a new one, essentially forcing them to sell him.
Arne Slot's title-winning Reds, who are looking to strengthen their central defense, are a probable contender. Yet, Palace's asking price of $53M (£40m) is currently more than what Liverpool is prepared to pay, especially considering he would be available for free next summer.
If these differences are resolved, and Liverpool acquires Guehi before Arsenal can secure Eze, there's a concern that Palace will close ranks after losing one key player and be determined not to lose another. This could also put Liverpool at a disadvantage if it prolongs a deal for Guehi.
The Reds' current focus appears to be on a potential British record transfer for Newcastle striker Alexander Isak, although experts believe they have the financial strength to complete that and possibly more deals due to their solid position with PSR, while further sales are expected at Anfield before September.
Prior to Palace's historic FA Cup triumph in May, Guehi was questioned about his future given his contract situation, and whilst he remained evasive, he indicated he would be considering his options.
"I think the most important thing is just always doing the best that I can for this football club," confessed the England international, who attracted a £65m offer from Newcastle last summer.
"I come in every day and I try to be the same. I try to work hard. And you know, this football club has given me a lot. I'm still under contract at this football club.
"My focus is always at this football club. So, you know, for me, the most important thing is just doing the best I can and seeing where the future holds."
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