Eberechi Eze's Crystal Palace Status: Will He Play Tonight Amidst Arsenal Transfer Speculation?

Aug 21, 2025
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Eberechi Eze is expected to play for Crystal Palace in their Conference League qualifier against Fredrikstad tonight, despite a looming transfer to Arsenal. The Gunners have reportedly agreed to a £67.5 million deal to sign the Crystal Palace forward, hijacking Tottenham Hotspur's move for the player.

The Current Situation

Arsenal's swoop for Eze came as a surprise, especially since Tottenham were seemingly close to finalizing a deal. Reports suggest that Arsenal reignited their interest following an injury to Kai Havertz. The agreement between Arsenal and Crystal Palace is believed to be a guaranteed £60 million plus £7.5 million in add-ons. Personal terms are expected to be a formality, with Eze, who began his career with Arsenal, keen on the move.

Why Eze is Likely to Play Tonight

Despite the imminent transfer, Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner has insisted that Eze will play in tonight's match against Fredrikstad. Glasner stated that Eze is committed to the team and will give 100% as long as he is with the club. Eze is expected to start in the game. Playing tonight will give Eze a chance to say goodbye to the Crystal Palace fans.

Medical and Potential Debut

Eze is expected to undergo a medical with Arsenal on Friday. If the transfer is finalized by 12pm BST on Friday, Eze could potentially make his Arsenal debut against Leeds United on Saturday. However, if the registration is not completed in time, his debut is more likely to be against Liverpool on August 31.

Champions League Eligibility

Even if Eze plays for Crystal Palace in the Conference League qualifier, he will still be eligible to represent Arsenal in the Champions League this season. UEFA regulations allow players to represent more than one club in their competitions per season, provided certain conditions are met.

Tottenham's Frustration

Tottenham's failure to secure Eze's signature will be a major source of frustration for the club, especially after chairman Daniel Levy spent days negotiating with Crystal Palace. Spurs felt they had an agreement in place with both the club and the player before Arsenal intervened.

Arsenal's Summer Spending

Eze is expected to become Arsenal's seventh signing of the summer transfer window. The Gunners have already brought in goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga, defender Cristhian Mosquera, midfielders Martin Zubimendi and Christian Norgaard, winger Noni Madueke, and striker Viktor Gyokeres.

Written By

Meera Patel

With a natural flair for communication, a warm, approachable demeanor, and a passion for sports, Meera is a promising journalist focused on community-based reporting. She excels at building rapport and loves sharing personal stories that often go unnoticed. Meera is particularly interested in highlighting the work of local non-profit organizations and the individuals making a difference in her community, all while keeping up with her favorite sports.