Newcastle United lead chase for Eberechi Eze as £60m summer move looms

Newcastle United are reportedly in pole position to sign Crystal Palace star Eberechi Eze in the upcoming summer transfer window, with manager Eddie Howe pushing for his arrival, according to journalist Sacha Tavolieri via Sky Sports.

Following their long-awaited Carabao Cup triumph over Liverpool, the Magpies are aiming to strengthen their squad ahead of a potential Champions League campaign next season. A key area of focus for Howe is the attacking midfield position, and Eze has emerged as the club’s priority target.

The 25-year-old is said to have a £60 million release clause that becomes active in the summer. While triggering the clause is described as "complicated," Newcastle’s ownership group, PIF, is reportedly prepared to meet the valuation to secure Eze’s signature.

The potential deal is gaining urgency amid speculation that Italy international Sandro Tonali may depart the club. Eze is seen as a player who could seamlessly fill that void, bringing creativity and flair to the midfield. His standout performances for Crystal Palace have earned him the "superstar" label, and he is attracting interest from top Premier League sides including Arsenal, Tottenham, and Manchester United.

However, Newcastle are believed to be leading the pursuit for now. Despite PIF’s vast financial resources, Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR) mean that the club may need to sell a player first to fund the transfer, a point reportedly communicated to Eze’s camp.

In addition to bolstering their midfield, Newcastle are also expected to target a new centre-back due to injury concerns surrounding Jamaal Lascelles and Sven Botman. Liverpool’s Jarrell Quansah and Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi are also on the club’s radar.