Arsenal have declined to trigger Eberechi Eze’s £68 million release clause, opting to negotiate a lower fee with Crystal Palace instead.

Arsenal have made a strategic decision regarding Eberechi Eze’s transfer, choosing not to trigger his £68 million release clause that expired on Friday. Instead, the Gunners are now looking to negotiate a lower fee with Crystal Palace, valuing the England international at under £60 million.

The release clause, which included a £60 million fixed fee with potential £8 million add-ons, has expired, giving Arsenal the opportunity to revisit the negotiations.

With Eze’s contract having under two years remaining, Arsenal believes they can secure a better deal as the transfer window nears its close.

Eze has already held talks with Arsenal, meeting with sporting director Andrea Berta and manager Mikel Arteta. According to reports, the player is open to a move to the Emirates, with no concerns over personal terms. 

Crystal Palace, however, is thought to want at least £35 million upfront as part of any deal, with a total package similar to the expired release clause. Arsenal, on the other hand, believes they are in a strong position to negotiate a lower fee, given Eze’s contract situation.

The Gunners are reportedly looking to balance their squad by securing a new forward, but they want at least one attacking departure before committing to another major purchase.