Eberechi Eze Reveals His Dream Club as Arsenal and Tottenham Battle for His Signature
Eberechi Eze, the Crystal Palace sensation, is reportedly eager to secure a transfer to Arsenal during the upcoming summer window, while Tottenham Hotspur appears to have reduced their pursuit of the talented midfielder.
The attacking midfielder's reputation has soared following an outstanding conclusion to the campaign, highlighted by his decisive strike in the FA Cup final that delivered Palace their maiden major silverware.
Eze's performance metrics have shown consistent improvement each season, with the 2024-25 campaign representing his most impressive Premier League showing yet, accumulating 16 combined goals and assists.
After Michael Olise's departure to Bayern Munich in the previous summer transfer window, the England squad member could be the next high-profile exit from Selhurst Park. Multiple Premier League sides have expressed interest in Eze, particularly the two prominent north London rivals.
Spurs have maintained long-term interest in the 27-year-old midfielder, and there were expectations at the transfer window's opening that they would finally pursue him seriously, having qualified for Champions League competition in 2025-26. Nevertheless, David Ornstein from The Athletic reports that Tottenham has yet to make concrete moves for Eze this summer, leaving Arsenal as the frontrunners.
According to Ornstein's sources, Arsenal is giving 'serious consideration' to acquiring Eze, with any potential deal expected to be separate from their pursuit of a new striker and winger. The Gunners are reportedly weighing their options between Benjamin Šeško and Viktor Gyökeres for their long-term striker position, while Rodrygo and Noni Madueke feature prominently on their wing target list.
While Eze can operate effectively in wide positions, his most impactful performances typically come when he's afforded the freedom to move centrally.
Fabrizio Romano reports that Arsenal has now established 'direct contact' with the player regarding a potential transfer, indicating that Eze is 'receptive' to joining the north London club this summer.
The England international reportedly has a £68.5 million ($93.3 million) buyout clause written into his Palace deal, and while the Eagles are willing to accept payment in installments, Arsenal hopes to negotiate a reduced transfer fee.
Having been released from Arsenal's youth academy at age 13, Eze might harbor sentiments of unfinished business at the Emirates Stadium.