Former Chelsea midfielder Craig Burley has strongly advocated for Arsenal to secure the signing of Crystal Palace playmaker Eberechi Eze, highlighting the unique qualities the England international would bring to Mikel Arteta’s squad.
Why Arsenal Must Act Fast to Secure Eberechi Eze – Burley Explains
Despite already making six signings this summer, Arsenal maintain concrete interest in Eze.
Although a release clause in his contract expired on August 1st, the Gunners are expected to submit a formal bid before the transfer window closes. Crystal Palace remain willing sellers if their valuation is met.
Speaking on ESPN FC, Burley explained why Arsenal must push to complete the deal.
He emphasised Eze offers a distinct profile compared to Arsenal’s current wide attackers like Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Martinelli, and Leandro Trossard.
“He’s different,” Burley stated. “He’s different to even Saka on the right side, he’s different to Martinelli, he’s different to Trossard.
He’s a wide player who looks to come in-field quite a lot and get in that little pocket behind the midfield. And he can pick a pass, and he can score a goal.”
Burley contrasted Eze’s style: “He’s not that pacy wide player. Saka’s a wide player that takes people on. Martinelli’s a wide player that takes people on. I would say Eze is a little bit different to that.”
He concluded this variety would be highly beneficial: “I think it’s a good thing for Arsenal to have that mix.”
Statistics from last season support Burley’s argument. Eze outperformed all three Arsenal players in successful dribbles (67) and fouls won (51).
He also matched Saka for chances created (58), while creating significantly more than Martinelli and Trossard.
Eze, instrumental in Palace’s FA Cup win, would address Arsenal’s need for increased creativity and goal threat.
His ability to commit defenders, draw fouls, and operate centrally could provide vital support for Martin Odegaard and new striker Viktor Gyokeres as Arsenal target the Premier League title.
Eze has carried his impressive form into pre-season, underlining the quality he would bring to the Emirates.
