Arsenal Unveil Eberechi Eze as New Star Signing with Jersey Number Confirmed
Arsenal have confirmed the acquisition of Eberechi Eze prior to their Premier League season opener at home versus Leeds United.
The transfer fee matches an expired release clause valued at £68 million (€78 million, $91 million), according to The Athletic on Thursday. Eze has been assigned the No. 10 jersey.
"We are delighted to have finalized this agreement to bring Eberechi to Arsenal," stated sporting director Andrea Berta in the official announcement. "Eberechi possesses creative flair and explosive ability with exceptional technical skills—he's also proven in crucial matches, with his international experience representing England highlighting his caliber and mentality.
"There has been outstanding collaboration throughout the organization to secure this transfer and we are highly confident Eberechi will be a valuable addition to our roster as we continue developing toward success."
The 27-year-old is expected to inject creativity into Mikel Arteta's squad, although his exact position remains uncertain. Many anticipate him playing as a left winger, but the ex-Palace star excels as an attacking midfielder. What's undeniable is the technical excellence he'll bring to an Arsenal team seeking to cross the finish line this campaign.
Eze played a crucial role in Crystal Palace capturing their inaugural major trophy, overcoming Manchester City in last season's FA Cup final. Palace subsequently defeated Liverpool in the Community Shield opener.
"We are thrilled to welcome Eberechi to Arsenal," Arteta commented. "He is a dynamic and thrilling player who will add a fresh element to our offensive approach.
"What impresses me as much as his ability and football intelligence is how he has dedicated himself throughout his career to reach this level. His path, his mindset, and his drive perfectly match what we seek in our squad, and we appreciate how significant joining our club is to him and his family. We eagerly anticipate beginning work with Eberechi shortly."
Eze possesses the technical brilliance, dribbling skills and finishing ability to enhance an Arsenal team that found it difficult to penetrate defensive setups last season. Eze believed he had scored his opening Premier League goal of the campaign against Chelsea with a spectacular free-kick recently, but it was ruled out following a VAR check.
The England squad member joins Viktor Gyökeres, Martín Zubimendi, Christian Nørgaard, Kepa Arrizabalaga, Noni Madueke and Cristhian Mosquera as new arrivals this summer. This signing follows Kai Havertz sustaining a knee problem as the Gunners sought alternative solutions.
Eze may feature for the first time on Sunday, Aug. 31 at Anfield facing Liverpool.