Tottenham Hotspur fear Arsenal could beat them to the signing of Eberechi Eze
Tottenham Hotspur are growing increasingly concerned that their North London rivals, Arsenal, could hijack their pursuit of Crystal Palace star Eberechi Eze. Spurs have been tracking Eze for over a year, hoping to secure the services of the versatile attacking midfielder. However, despite their long-standing interest, Arsenal’s potential involvement has complicated matters, leaving Tottenham uncertain about the player’s future.
Eze, who joined Crystal Palace from Queens Park Rangers in the summer of 2020, has become a key figure for the Eagles. Despite facing some injury setbacks, the 26-year-old had an impressive 2023/24 campaign, contributing 17 G/A in 31 appearances. His consistent performances earned him a spot in the England squad for Euro 2024 and placed him firmly on the radar of several top clubs, including both Tottenham and Arsenal.
Tottenham’s Long-Standing Pursuit of Eze
Tottenham’s interest in Eze has been no secret. The club has been chasing the England international since last summer, and they even reached a gentleman’s agreement with the player regarding a potential move. Spurs were willing to meet Crystal Palace’s £68 million valuation of Eze, and Daniel Levy, Tottenham’s chairman, reportedly invited Eze’s family to the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium to watch a North London Derby last season—a clear indication of their intent to strike a deal.
Everything seemed to be moving in the right direction for Tottenham to secure Eze’s signature. However, things took a significant turn when Arsenal entered the race for the attacking midfielder. According to Football Transfers, Eze’s representatives informed Spurs that the Gunners had shown interest, which disrupted Tottenham’s plans. As a result, Spurs shifted their focus to other targets, including Bournemouth’s Dominic Solanke, using the funds initially set aside for Eze to complete that deal.
Arsenal’s Potential Hijack
Despite Tottenham’s continued interest in Eze, they are now wary of Arsenal’s potential to hijack the transfer. The Gunners have the financial flexibility to make a move for Eze, especially after bringing in Raheem Sterling on a season-long loan, which frees up space in both their squad and wage bill. Arsenal’s involvement has made Tottenham uneasy, as they fear the Gunners could swoop in and secure Eze’s signature next summer.
Eze remains an attractive prospect for both North London clubs due to his versatility. The former QPR star can operate on either flank or as a central attacking midfielder, making him a valuable addition to any squad. While Tottenham had been hoping to finalise a deal this past summer, Arsenal’s interest has complicated the situation, and Spurs now face the possibility of losing out on a key target to their fierce rivals.
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Tottenham’s pursuit of Eberechi Eze has been long and carefully planned, but Arsenal’s entry into the race has turned this transfer saga into a fierce battle between the two North London clubs. While Spurs had been confident of bringing Eze to the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, they now face stiff competition from their rivals.
As both clubs continue to monitor the situation, it remains to be seen whether Tottenham can fend off Arsenal’s interest or if the Gunners will successfully hijack the deal.
