Arsenal Hijack Spurs with £67.5 Million Move for Eberechi Eze
In a dramatic late twist, Arsenal have swooped in to secure a deal worth up to £67.5 million to bring Crystal Palace attacker Eberechi Eze to the Emirates Stadium, boldly overtaking previously poised suitors Tottenham Hotspur.
The breakthrough came amid growing concern over a knee injury to Kai Havertz, prompting Arsenal’s management, including sporting director Andrea Berta and vice-chairman Tim Lewis, to move quickly and submit a significantly front-loaded offer. The agreement reportedly includes £60 million in guaranteed money, with £7.5 million in potential add-ons.
Eze, 27, has expressed his ambition to compete in the UEFA Champions League, and, crucially, has a strong personal bond with Arsenal, rejoining the club that released him as a youth. His preference played a key role in swaying the decision in Arsenal’s favor.
While Tottenham had thought their agreement with Palace and the player was secure, Arsenal’s decisive maneuver shifted the landscape, dealing a blow to their north London rivals.
A Farewell on the Horizon
Eze is set to feature one final time for Crystal Palace in their Europa Conference League playoff before undergoing a medical at Arsenal. Oliver Glasner, Palace’s manager, will have to proceed without his key creative presence for the historic fixture.
Emotional Return and Tactical Boost
This move marks an emotional homecoming for Eze, 14 years after being released by Arsenal—and a statement of intent from the club, who have already spent heavily this summer. The signing could be a catalytic addition, potentially helping Arsenal make a serious push for their first Premier League title since 2004.
Post-Move Repercussions
Gripped by frustration, former Tottenham midfielder Jamie O’Hara took to airwaves to slam Spurs’ failures in securing the deal, calling chairman Daniel Levy a “penny-pincher” and lambasting the club’s reluctance, which he felt cost them another pivotal player.