Arsenal have stepped up their interest in signing Eberechi Eze from Crystal Palace.
Officials from the club have already met his representatives to discuss personal terms, although no formal negotiations have begun with Palace themselves.
Eze was part of the Hale End academy until he was released at the age of 13, is believed to have a release clause of ₤67.5 million, and that Palace would be prepared to take this in instalments.
Tottenham are also interested in acquiring his services, although the player is thought to prefer a move back to the Emirates.
It is not immediately clear how Eze might fit into Arsenal’s plans for next season. Although they have been looking for a wide forward to play on the left, the 27 year old is more one suited to playing inside, supporting the front man, as he did when scoring the winning goal in last season’s FA Cup final against Manchester City.
