Chelsea have restarted discussions with the agents of Crystal Palace’s star man Eberechi Eze this week as they press ahead with an audacious summer raid. The Blues are considering whether to trigger the midfielder’s release clause as the transfer window ticks on.
Chelsea have been long-term admirers of Eze, but the renewed discussions suggest they are stepping up their pursuit of the 26-year-old ahead of a potential move to Stamford Bridge. The club’s recruitment team feel he is the kind of high-level addition that can enjoy life under Enzo Maresca, bringing flair as well as tactical versatility.
Release Clause and Player-Plus-Cash Strategy
Eze’s contract contains a £60m up-front release clause, with £8m in performance-related add-ons, making a total package of £68m. Chelsea do not wish to pay the entire fee in cash and have thought about a player-plus-cash offer to try to limit their outlay.
Trevoh Chalobah, who had a loan spell at Selhurst Park, is under consideration as part of any player-plus-cash deal to reduce the fee.
While assessing their position, Chelsea’s move to reopen talks with Eze’s camp highlights their growing intent to secure a deal. But it is still an option to trigger the clause if negotiations collapse. Chelsea are also aware of Financial Fair Play rules and could be tempted to vanquish or diminish the deal in that way.
Arsenal Interest Adds Transfer Tension
Arsenal are also right in the thick. The Gunners have also had discussions directly with Eze’s entourage and explored the make-up of his release clause. Arsenal’s competing interest has intensified Chelsea’s pursuit with the two clubs fighting to land Eze before pre-season ramps up.
Chelsea view Eze as a perfect fit for their current squad needs—capable of playing as a No. 10 or a wide playmaker. He has scored 40 goals and provided 28 assists in 167 appearances for Palace. Uncertainty about Christopher Nkunku’s future means Chelsea are lining up Eze as a top creative addition–but plenty of others are in the hunt.
As featured on Chelseanews.com
