‘As of Friday morning…’ – Could Tottenham now pip Arsenal to Eze after fresh update from Miguel Delaney?
Crystal Palace Star Eberechi Eze Expected to Leave This Summer, but Arsenal May Hand Spurs an Opening
Crystal Palace’s attacking sensation Eberechi Eze is widely expected to depart Selhurst Park in the current transfer window, but his destination remains uncertain. According to The Independent journalist Miguel Delaney, while Tottenham Hotspur remain strongly interested, arch-rivals Arsenal are also monitoring the situation—although they have yet to formalise their intent.
In his latest Reading the Game newsletter, Delaney emphasized that the England international is unlikely to agitate for a move, but the growing anticipation around his future indicates that a summer switch is highly probable.
> “Eberechi Eze isn’t one to kick up a fuss either, but the expectation is that he will move,” Delaney wrote.
“And it isn’t certain that it will be to Tottenham. They do like him, but so does almost every major club, including Arsenal.”
However, despite the widespread interest, Arsenal have not submitted a formal bid and appear to be focused elsewhere. With Mikel Arteta prioritizing the signing of a top-class striker to lead the line next season, any pursuit of Eze would likely require outgoing transfers to raise the necessary funds—particularly with Eze’s release clause reportedly set at £68 million.
Spurs Eager to Strike First as Arsenal Delay Decision
Tottenham, now managed by Thomas Frank following the departure of Ange Postecoglou, are eager to reinforce their attacking options ahead of a demanding 2025/26 campaign. The club’s top brass are prepared to financially support Frank as he looks to build on the foundation of Spurs’ Europa League triumph.
Eze has long been a target for Tottenham’s recruitment team, and with Arsenal hesitating, Spurs could find themselves in pole position to strike first.
A move for the 26-year-old would represent a significant statement—not only by improving their squad but by getting one over their North London rivals. Tottenham are well aware that beating Arsenal to a coveted English international could ignite momentum and fan optimism after an underwhelming domestic campaign.
Eze’s Rising Value and Versatility
Eze’s numbers speak for themselves. He enjoyed a stellar 2024/25 campaign, racking up 14 goals and 11 assists in 43 appearances, following an impressive return of 11 goals and six assists in the previous season. His contributions at Crystal Palace have consistently drawn the attention of top clubs, with his flair, versatility, and footballing intelligence making him an asset for any manager.
Capable of playing on the left wing, as a central attacking midfielder, or even as a false nine, Eze’s flexibility would offer Thomas Frank an additional dimension in the final third. His dribbling ability, pace, and eye for goal could be the perfect complement to Tottenham’s evolving attacking strategy.
Frank is reportedly keen to add creative depth to his squad, and Eze’s profile fits the bill perfectly—particularly in formations where fluidity, pressing, and vertical attacking movements are crucial.
Arsenal’s Transfer Constraints Could Open the Door
Arsenal’s interest is real, but their current transfer focus is elsewhere. Reports suggest that the Gunners are weighing up moves for either Benjamin Sesko or Viktor Gyokeres to fill their long-standing need for a reliable No.9. Unless they generate significant revenue from player sales, it is unlikely they will pursue Eze in the immediate term.
This hesitation could allow Tottenham to make the first decisive move, offering personal terms and triggering the release clause before Arsenal even get a chance to table a bid. With Champions League football on offer at Spurs next season, despite their disappointing 17th-place Premier League finish, the club can still present an appealing project to ambitious targets.
Daniel Levy Urged to Deliver
For Spurs chairman Daniel Levy, this is a moment to show ambition. The club has been criticized in recent windows for missing out on key targets and not backing managers in crucial moments. Securing Eze—particularly ahead of Arsenal—would be a significant win for both Frank and the fans.
With other Premier League giants circling and Eze’s stock rising by the day, time is of the essence. Tottenham cannot afford to hesitate in this chase. If they are serious about competing on multiple fronts next season, then adding a player of Eze’s caliber should be a priority—especially while their closest rivals are distracted.