
Manchester United have officially submitted a bid to sign Crystal Palace’s Eberechi Eze, fresh off his match-winning performance in the 2025 FA Cup final. Eze, who scored the only goal in Palace’s historic 1–0 victory over Manchester City at Wembley, has quickly become one of the most in-demand players in the Premier League.Eze’s goal not only secured the first major trophy in Crystal Palace’s history but also cemented his status as a top-tier talent.
His exceptional form throughout the 2024/25 season, coupled with his versatility and creativity, has caught the attention of several top clubs—including Manchester United.### United’s Transfer AmbitionsThe Red Devils, looking to rebuild under their current management after a turbulent season, have made Eze a primary transfer target.
Known for his flair, dribbling ability, and tactical intelligence, the 26-year-old can play across the attacking midfield line, making him an ideal candidate to revitalize United’s inconsistent attack.However, bringing Eze to Old Trafford will not be straightforward.
Crystal Palace have set a £60 million release clause on the midfielder, and reports indicate they are unwilling to negotiate for anything less. This upfront cost presents a financial challenge for United, who must remain within their spending limits.
Financial Hurdles and Potential DeparturesTo make the move viable, Manchester United may need to offload a key player. Speculation suggests that either Bruno Fernandes or Marcus Rashford could be sold to free up funds. Fernandes, although a fan favorite, has drawn interest from clubs in Saudi Arabia and Spain. Rashford’s form has dipped in recent months, and Palace may be open to a part-exchange deal involving him plus a cash sum to meet Eze’s valuation.
A potential swap involving Rashford and Eze has been floated, with Palace receiving the England winger and an additional £20 million. However, such a deal would hinge not just on finances but also on player consent.
Eze would need to be convinced of United’s project, while Rashford would have to accept a move away from the club he’s called home for over a decade.
Eze’s Remarkable RiseEze’s journey to Premier League stardom has been anything but conventional. Rejected by Arsenal, Fulham, Reading, and Millwall during his youth career, he found stability at Queens Park Rangers, where he rose through the ranks and showcased his immense potential. In 2020, Crystal Palace signed him for £17 million—a fee that now looks like a bargain.
Since joining Palace, Eze has made over 150 appearances and grown into a fan favorite. His style of play, which combines close control, vision, and a knack for spectacular goals, makes him one of the Premier League’s most watchable players. His FA Cup-winning goal, scored under the lights of Wembley against the reigning champions, has only amplified his profile.
Competition for His SignatureUnited are not the only club interested. Arsenal, Liverpool, Manchester City, and Tottenham Hotspur are all monitoring Eze’s situation. It’s understood that the player prefers a move to either Arsenal or Liverpool—two clubs with clearer sporting projects and a more stable environment than United’s currently volatile setup.This could be a significant roadblock for Manchester United. Convincing Eze to choose them over their rivals will require more than just meeting the release clause—it will take a compelling pitch about the club’s future direction and his role in it.
### Crystal Palace’s PositionWhile Palace are understandably reluctant to lose their star player, manager Oliver Glasner is reportedly open to selling Eze—as well as defender Marc Guehi—to fund broader squad improvements. Palace remain firm on their valuation and are unlikely to budge below the release clause.
ConclusionManchester United’s pursuit of Eberechi Eze is a bold move aimed at injecting creativity and energy into a team in transition. While the bid underscores their ambition, they will need to overcome financial constraints, fend off interest from rival clubs, and win over the player himself. The coming weeks will determine whether United can pull off one of the most talked-about signings of the summer.