Arsenal are reportedly preparing contingency plans in the event they fail to land Crystal Palace star Eberechi Eze, with sporting director Andrea Berta now eyeing a move for a prolific Serie A attacker as an alternative.

The Gunners have already completed six major signings this summer as Mikel Arteta’s side looks to make the leap from perennial runners-up to Premier League champions. Despite bolstering their attacking line with the arrivals of centre-forward Viktor Gyökeres and winger Noni Madueke, Arsenal are believed to still be in the market for one more high-quality addition in the forward line.

To that end, Arsenal have made Eze a top target. The Crystal Palace playmaker, who helped the Eagles to FA Cup success, has a release clause of £68 million (€78m, $90.4m) in his current deal – a figure Arsenal are reportedly reluctant to meet in full.

While talks have been held and the 27-year-old has expressed interest in a move to the Emirates, negotiations have hit a snag. With the clause set to expire before the Premier League season kicks off, Arsenal are said to be preparing a bid below the clause’s value – hoping Eze’s desire for the switch will pressure Palace into accepting a lower fee.

However, according to Football Insider, Crystal Palace have no intention of allowing Eze to leave for a discounted sum. The Eagles are standing firm on their valuation, reportedly prepared to reject any offer in the region of £55 million.

The South London club’s reluctance to part ways with their midfield talisman is further compounded by their own struggles in the transfer market, making them even less inclined to weaken their squad ahead of the new season.

With that in mind, Berta and the Arsenal recruitment team are now exploring alternative targets. Reports suggest they have revived their interest in Nigerian international Ademola Lookman, who may be available from Atalanta for significantly less than the price of Eze.