Eberechi Eze was quizzed about speculation linking him with a move to Arsenal after Sunday’s Community Shield at Wembley.
After netting in Crystal Palace’s FA Cup victory in May, Eze was named in Oliver Glasner’s starting XI for their curtain raiser on Sunday.
Palace twice went behind at the home of football against Arne Slot’s new-look Liverpool, but equalised on both occasions courtesy of goals from Jean-Philippe Mateta and Ismaila Sarr.
For the third season running the Community Shield was decided on spot kicks, and despite Eze missing from 12 yards Palace went on to win thanks to a pair of saves from Dean Henderson.
Palace subsequently made their way up the 107 steps of the trophy presentation route to celebrate their success, but questions immediately turned to the future of their star man.
As the England international made his way down the stairs, a fan questioned him on the speculation surrounding a potential move to the Emirates.
Eze briefly made eye contact with the supporter in question before appearing to crack a smile at the remark as he walked away.
The apparent gesture has led to some fans on social media insisting that Eze will be making his way to north London this summer to join Mikel Arteta’s side.
The Gunners have already enjoyed a productive window after a third successive third place Premier League finish, including the additions of Martin Zubimendi and £64million striker Viktor Gyokeres.
Eze’s £68million release clause reportedly expired earlier this month, with Palace now able to charge whatever they choose for their prize asset.
Reports suggest Arsenal value him below the £68m fee but that Palace chairman Steve Parish may lower his valuation as the window goes on if he fears Eze could run his deal down into the final year.
However, Eze has remained a key target for the club, with reports suggesting that Arsenal’s recent spending will not preclude a move for the 27-year-old.
Last term, he scored eight goals and registered eight assists in the Premier League as Glasner’s men secured a 12th-place finish.
Eze’s departure would be a major hit to Palace, who are also at risk of losing captain Marc Guehi with the centre back being linked with Liverpool.
Meanwhile last season’s top goalscorer Mateta is also being monitored by a number of clubs.
If Arsenal were to agree a deal for Eze in the region of £60m, it would take their summer spending past £250m, including Gyokeres.
Aretata’s side have also welcomed the arrivals of Noni Madueke, Cristhian Mosquera, Kepa Arrizabalaga and Christian Norgaard this summer.
The Gunners kick off their Premier League campaign on Sunday with a visit to Old Trafford to take on Ruben Amorim’s Manchester United.
