**DONE DEAL: Eberechi Eze Signs Three-Year Contract After Agreeing Terms – Star Midfielder Commits Future Amid Interest from Nottingham Forest**
In a major development that puts to rest weeks of speculation, Eberechi Eze has officially signed a new three-year contract with Crystal Palace, committing his future to the South London club amid serious interest from Premier League rivals, notably Nottingham Forest.
The 26-year-old attacking midfielder has been the subject of intense transfer rumors this summer, with several clubs vying for his signature following a stellar 2024/25 season. Nottingham Forest were reportedly prepared to break their transfer record to bring Eze to the City Ground, seeing him as the marquee signing to lead their midfield next season. However, after lengthy negotiations and reassurances from Palace’s hierarchy about the club’s direction, Eze has decided to stay put.
“I’m really happy to be continuing my journey here,” Eze told club media after putting pen to paper. “Crystal Palace has always felt like home, and I believe we’re building something special. The fans have backed me since day one, and I want to repay that faith.”
### Palace Fend Off Forest
Nottingham Forest’s interest was no secret. According to sources close to the club, Forest manager Nuno Espírito Santo identified Eze as a top target early in the transfer window. Their offer reportedly included a substantial upfront fee, performance-based bonuses, and a contract that would have made Eze one of the highest earners at the club.
Forest were especially keen to add creativity and flair to their squad after a difficult campaign where goals were hard to come by. Eze, with his ability to glide past defenders, create chances, and score from distance, was viewed as the ideal fit.
However, Crystal Palace stood firm, making it clear they had no intention of letting one of their most prized assets leave easily. Talks between Eze’s representatives and Palace intensified over the past few weeks, with the club offering improved personal terms and assurances regarding squad reinforcements and long-term ambitions.
### A Star on the Rise
Eze joined Crystal Palace from Queens Park Rangers in 2020 and has since developed into one of the Premier League’s most exciting midfielders. His vision, dribbling ability, and technical skills have seen him become a fan favorite and a key part of Palace’s attacking setup.
Last season, Eze scored 10 goals and provided 8 assists in 34 appearances across all competitions, helping Palace finish 10th in the Premier League — their highest finish in nearly a decade. He also earned a call-up to the England squad, making two appearances in friendlies and putting himself in contention for a spot in the upcoming international tournaments.
His consistent performances have drawn praise from pundits and managers alike. Former England striker Ian Wright called him “one of the most naturally gifted midfielders England has produced in years,” while Roy Keane praised his “composure and elegance on the ball.”
### Club’s Ambition Key to Deal
One of the main sticking points during negotiations was Eze’s desire to see the club match his ambition. Palace chairman Steve Parish and manager Oliver Glasner reportedly played pivotal roles in convincing Eze to stay, outlining an ambitious three-year plan that includes significant investment in the squad, a renewed focus on youth development, and an intent to challenge for European qualification.
Speaking at the official announcement, Glasner said: “Ebere is an exceptional talent, and keeping him here was a top priority. He’s not just a great player — he’s a leader on and off the pitch. This new deal is a statement of intent. We’re not here to stand still.”
Palace are also rumored to be close to signing a new striker and a central midfielder, moves that could further bolster their squad and show Eze that the club is serious about competing at a higher level.
### Fans Celebrate the News
News of Eze’s contract renewal has been met with jubilation by the Palace faithful. Social media was flooded with messages of support and celebration, with hashtags like **#EzeStays** and **#PalacePride** trending shortly after the announcement.
“It’s like a new signing,” one fan tweeted. “Keeping Eze is more important than any transfer we could have made. He’s the heartbeat of this team.”
Season ticket renewals have reportedly seen a spike since the news broke, with many supporters seeing Eze’s commitment as a sign that better days are ahead.
### What This Means for Nottingham Forest
For Forest, the failed pursuit of Eze is undoubtedly a setback. The club had pinned much of their summer hopes on landing a creative midfielder to reshape their attack. With Eze now off the table, Forest will have to shift their focus to alternative targets, with rumors linking them to Ajax’s Kenneth Taylor and RB Leipzig’s Emil Forsberg.
While Forest may feel disappointed, their ambitious bid signals their intent to grow as a Premier League force. Club insiders suggest that the funds earmarked for Eze will now be spread across multiple positions as Forest look to build a more balanced squad.
### Looking Ahead
With his future now secured, Eberechi Eze can focus entirely on the new season ahead. Pre-season training is already underway, and Palace fans will be eager to see their star man lead the team into what promises to be an exciting campaign.
For Crystal Palace, retaining Eze may be the biggest win of the summer — a reminder to fans and rivals alike that the Eagles are ready to soar higher than ever.
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