Eberechi Eze is back in the spotlight, with a Premier League switch on the horizon as top clubs scramble for his signature. Arsenal are now plotting a bold £68m move, looking to re-sign the player they once released from their Hale End Academy. The England international has transformed into a star at Crystal Palace, culminating in a match-winning performance during last season’s FA Cup final.
Before reaching the top, Eze’s journey was anything but smooth. After leaving Arsenal as a teenager, he struggled to find his footing, bouncing through academies at Fulham, Reading, Sunderland, Millwall, and Swansea. There was even a point he considered giving up football completely, taking a part-time job at Tesco before getting a break at QPR.
Arsenal’s renewed interest is a potential emotional homecoming for Eze, who once cried for days after being dropped by the Gunners. Though his peers like Reiss Nelson and Joe Willock advanced at Hale End, Eze faced rejection and heartbreak. When he faced Arsenal again with Fulham, the emotional toll of being let go overwhelmed him.
It was at QPR where he revived his dream. After impressing on loan at Wycombe, he made his mark at Loftus Road and eventually earned a move to Palace. His progress didn’t stop there—he has since become a regular fixture in Gareth Southgate’s England squad.
While Tottenham appeared to lead the chase with new boss Thomas Frank eager for a marquee signing, Arsenal are ready to step in. Manchester United are also tracking the situation, hoping to pair Eze with recent signings like Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo.
At 26 and in peak form, Eze’s next move could complete a powerful redemption arc—from near-retirement and part-time jobs to a potential return to one of the Premier League’s elite. Palace are unlikely to block his exit, especially with the £68m release clause opening the door.