- Arsenal’s summer business continues to gather momentum, with the North London club reportedly engaging in talks to offload one of their underwhelming signings – a move that could pave the way for the arrival of Crystal Palace’s dazzling star, Eberechi Eze.
- The Gunners have already made waves in the transfer market this window, securing six new signings, including headline arrivals like Viktor Gyokeres and Martin Zubimendi. Yet, Mikel Arteta and sporting director Andrea Berta appear far from finished. The club is reportedly working on additional reinforcements as they prepare to make a serious push for the Premier League title in the upcoming season.
Despite a recent setback in a pre-season defeat to Tottenham Hotspur, Arsenal’s overall summer preparations have been positive. The squad is being reshaped to fit Arteta’s long-term vision, and fringe players are now being considered for sale to make room for fresh, high-impact additions.
One such player likely to depart is Portuguese midfielder Fabio Vieira. Signed for around £34 million from FC Porto in 2022, Vieira arrived at the Emirates with high expectations but has failed to consistently deliver. Injuries and a lack of confidence have stifled his progress, and he has never fully convinced Arteta of his place in the squad.
According to reports from European journalist Sebastien Vidal, German Bundesliga side VfB Stuttgart has opened talks with Arsenal over a potential permanent move for the 25-year-old midfielder. The deal could represent a financial loss for the Gunners, but club insiders believe it’s a necessary step if they are to create room – both financially and in the squad – for a marquee name like Eze.
Eze, the Crystal Palace talisman, has long been admired by Arsenal. The interest dates back to last summer, but talks have grown significantly more concrete in recent weeks. The Gunners are reportedly waiting for the £68 million release clause in his contract to expire later this month, which would allow for more flexible negotiations with Palace.
The 27-year-old playmaker enjoyed a sensational season last term, netting 14 goals and providing 11 assists in 43 appearances across all competitions. That level of output, particularly for a player at a mid-table club, has made him one of the most coveted attacking midfielders in England.
Ben Mattinson, a respected analyst, labeled Eze a “superstar” last season, and it’s easy to see why. He possesses the dribbling, creativity, and goal threat that Arsenal could use in the final third – particularly in games where they struggle to break down low blocks. His dynamic style could perfectly complement Martin Ødegaard and allow for more tactical flexibility in Arteta’s preferred 4-3-3 setup.
In addition to his league heroics, Eze played a crucial role in Palace’s fairy-tale FA Cup run, scoring in the quarter-finals, semi-finals, and even in the final. His performances have demonstrated not just flair, but also a growing maturity and big-game presence – qualities Arteta highly values in his players.
Fabio Vieira, in contrast, has struggled to stamp his authority on matches. Over two full seasons at Arsenal, he has managed only 13 goal contributions in 49 appearances. Even during his loan stint back at Porto last season, Vieira failed to shine, recording just 11 goal involvements in 42 games – a return deemed insufficient for a player of his pedigree.
Talent scout Jacek Kulig once described Vieira as “exceptional,” but that potential has remained largely untapped in English football. While the midfielder shows occasional flashes of brilliance, he has never truly convinced supporters or the coaching staff of his readiness for a key role.
With Arsenal pushing hard to sign Eze, Vieira’s sale could be the key to unlocking the funds and space required for the move. The club knows Eze won’t come cheap, but they also understand the value of investing in proven Premier League talent who fits the club’s attacking ethos.
As things stand, negotiations with Stuttgart are ongoing, and should the German club meet Arsenal’s asking price – believed to be around £25 million – a deal could be completed swiftly. That would represent a £9 million loss on the initial investment, but the potential gain from bringing in a talent like Eze could outweigh the short-term financial hit.
Ultimately, Arsenal’s interest in Eze reflects their ambition to evolve and stay competitive in one of Europe’s toughest leagues. With players like Gyokeres, Ødegaard, Saka, and potentially Eze forming the core of the attacking unit, Arsenal could be laying the groundwork for one of the most exciting forward lines in the Premier League.
While Vieira’s time at the Emirates may soon come to an end, his departure could mark the beginning of a new chapter for the Gunners – one led by dynamism, creativity, and a genuine Premier League star in Eberechi Eze.
