Report: Arsenal preparing player plus cash bid to sign Eberechi Eze, Berta determined to complete deal

Arsenal are intensifying their pursuit of Crystal Palace playmaker Eberechi Eze, with transfer chief Andrea Berta driving the move forward during the early stages of the summer window.

According to The Sun, Arsenal are exploring a player-plus-cash deal for the 27-year-old, and Fresh Arsenal understands that 18-year-old right-back Josh Nichols is the emerging talent referenced as a possible makeweight. Nichols, who signed professional terms with Arsenal last summer, has impressed in youth and first-team training sessions and could appeal to Palace as a long-term prospect with Premier League potential.

Eze, who played a key role in Palace’s resurgence under Oliver Glasner last season, is a priority target for Arsenal as they look to add creativity and goal threat in attacking midfield areas. Eze’s ability to drive the ball forward and break lines that truly caught the eye last season. Mikel Arteta has long admired his unique combination of flair, physicality, and tactical intelligence, and believes he could complement the likes of Martin Ødegaard and Declan Rice in Arsenal’s midfield.

While Nichols could be part of the deal, Palace also have a historic interest in versatile defender Jakub Kiwior. The Polish international is valued for his ability to play at left-back and centre-back — two positions where Palace will likely be short, especially with England international Marc Guehi expected to leave this summer.

Including one or even two players in the deal could help Arsenal reduce the overall fee required to land Eze, whose contract with Palace runs until 2027 and includes a significant release clause. Arsenal are determined to get this deal done, and a structured agreement with player involvement could be key to unlocking funds for other summer business.

A potential Eze to Arsenal transfer would mark a significant coup early in the window, giving the Gunners a dynamic attacking option ahead of a crucial 2025/26 campaign. Berta’s influence in progressing negotiations reflects his growing role in Arsenal’s evolving recruitment strategy.

For more updates, check out our Arsenal transfer news.