Arsenal told to pay major chunk of clause upfront to sign attacker

Arsenal have been informed by Crystal Palace that they need to pay a major chunk of the release clause upfront to sign playmaker Eberechi Eze this summer.

The Gunners are determined to land the England international, who can play on the left wing or the number 10 role. He has already given the green light for the transfer, but a deal could depend on player sales.

Arsenal are in the process of offloading Reiss Nelson and possibly Leandro Trossard. The funds recouped from the duo's departure could help the Gunners secure the signature of Eze from the Eagles.

Eze has a release clause worth £67.5 million in his contract and Palace want an initial fee of around £35m from the Gunners to part ways with the 27-year-old before the transfer deadline in September.

Arsenal continue to maintain a communication line with their London counterparts, but a transfer could be delayed until the final days of the window with the need to recoup some funds.