Crystal Palace have confirmed their starting XI for tonight’s clash against Norwegian football club, Fredrikstad Fotballklubb, and one notable absentee has immediately fueled fresh speculation – Eberechi Eze.
The England international, who has been heavily linked with a move to Arsenal in the final days of the transfer window, does not feature in Oliver Glasner’s lineup. Instead, 20-year-old Justin Devenny comes into the side, slotting in where Eze would typically operate.
Palace Lineup Changes
According to the official team sheet, Jefferson Lerma and Borna Sosa are drafted in for Chris Richards and Tyrick Mitchell, while Devenny replaces Eze in midfield. The Eagles will line up in a 3-4-2-1 system with Dean Henderson in goal, Maxence Lacroix marshalling the backline, and Jean-Philippe Mateta leading the attack, supported by Ismaila Sarr and Devenny.
Eze’s absence is the biggest talking point, especially after reports in England suggested he is to undergo a medical ahead of a possible move to Arsenal. The Gunners, who are looking to bolster their creative options, have been long-term admirers of the midfielder.
Havertz Injury Accelerates Arsenal’s Move
The transfer links come at a time when Arsenal are dealing with a midfield setback. Kai Havertz has reportedly picked up a knee injury, sidelining him for several weeks. His absence has forced Mikel Arteta and Arsenal’s recruitment team to move quickly for a creative option, with Eze emerging as their top target.
Arsenal see Eze as a versatile attacking midfielder who can both score and create, making him an ideal addition to a squad chasing domestic and European honours this season.
Arsenal’s Transfer Push
The Gunners have already strengthened significantly this summer with Viktor Gyokeres arriving from Sporting CP in a €63.5m move and Noni Madueke joining from London rivals Chelsea for £48.5m If completed, the Eze signing would add depth and dynamism to a midfield already anchored by captain Martin Ødegaard.
Tonight’s Clash
Palace kick off at 22:00 EAT against Klaksvík in what could be a defining European night for the club. With key changes to the lineup and the distraction of the transfer window, Glasner will be hoping his side stays focused on the task at hand.
For Palace supporters, all eyes remain on whether their star man will still be at Selhurst Park by the time the transfer window closes.
