Crystal Palace attacker Eberechi Eze has reportedly told his close friends that he will join Arsenal this summer. 

The Gunners have worked well in the transfer window so far. They have agreed a deal to finally address the striker position and sign Viktor Gyokeres from Sporting CP, for a reported value of around £64m.

Furthermore, Arteta has also added Martin Zubimendi in midfield, and Noni Madueke to bring in some depth on the wings, but he wants more. It is understood that Arsenal want to sign Crystal Palace attacker Eberechi Eze, who has a £68m release clause.

There have reportedly been initial talks, but nothing concrete, but it certainly does feel like the Gunners will make a formal approach to sign Eze. In a fresh update, according to TBR Journalist Graeme Bailey, Eze has told his close friends that he will join Arsenal this summer.

Bailey said: “I am told that Eze remains firmly on Arsenal’s radar and they have done plenty of work on him — there is a very good chance that Eze will be an Arsenal player before the end of August. Arsenal have maintained contact with Eze’s people throughout the summer.”

Who else could Arsenal sign instead of Eze?

Eze seems to be the most likely attacker, but reports this week have also emerged suggesting that the Gunners are set to challenge Chelsea to bring in RB Leipzig attacker Xavi Simons. The Dutchman, like Eze, can play in the middle or on the wing.

However, unlike Eze, he is expected to be cheaper. Reports have said that Leipzig could sell Simons for as little as £50m, which for a player who is already world class at the age of 22, will surely be tempting for Arsenal and Arteta.

Despite that, it is understood that Eze remains Arteta’s first choice, and seeing as he grew up as an Arsenal fan, it would likely be Eze’s preferred destination too. There has also been reported interest previously from Liverpool and Tottenham.