If Arsenal want to sign Eberechi Eze, time is truly of the essence—because the release clause in his contract reportedly expires at 11:59 pm tonight, August 1, 2025.

If Arsenal want to sign Eberechi Eze, time is truly of the essence—because the release clause in his contract reportedly expires at 11:59 pm tonight, August 1, 2025.

After that deadline passes, Arsenal would lose the ability to trigger the clause and would instead have to negotiate a deal with Crystal Palace directly—likely at a higher or more flexible price. 

 

✅ What Arsenal needs to do today:

 

Trigger the £67–68 million release clause (~£60 m base + up to £7.5 m in add-ons) before the midnight cut‑off. 

 

Be prepared to pay over £35 million upfront, as Palace demand a substantial lump‑sum portion. 

 

 

🔍 Arsenal’s position and alternatives:

 

While Arsenal reportedly value Eze closer to £60 million or under, they risk missing out unless they act fast or strike a structured deal. 

 

They may explore a swap deal—for example, including Leandro Trossard as part of the package to reduce upfront cash outlay. 

 

If Arsenal miss tonight’s deadline, they’ll have to enter normal negotiations with Crystal Palace after August 2, likely at a premium.

 

 

🕒 Why it’s urgent:

 

The release clause is valid only until midnight tonight (some reports suggest expiration is tied to the Premier League season start around August 15, but multiple sources confirm tonight is the deadline). Once past that point, the opportunity to buy under the fixed clause disappears.

 

 

—

 

TL;DR:

 

Yes—the deal must be done today if Arsenal want to rely on the release clause. Failing that, they’d need to negotiate a standard transfer next, risking losing out to other suitors like Bayern, Liverpool, or Manchester City. 

 

Let me know if you want a breakdown of likely outgoing names, potential payment structure, or how Palace could respond.