Arsenal are reportedly set to hijack Tottenham's move for Crystal Palace star Eberechi Eze. The Gunners have reignited their interest in the winger following a knee injury to Kai Havertz.
Tottenham were previously leading negotiations for Eze, with a deal reportedly around £55 million plus add-ons. However, Arsenal are confident they can persuade Eze to choose them over Tottenham. Arsenal's proposed deal is believed to be similar to Tottenham's approximate £60 million package but includes faster payment terms.
Arsenal have reportedly agreed to personal terms with Eze and have an agreement in principle with Crystal Palace for a deal worth around £68 million. Eze is expected to have a medical on Friday.
Spurs have been in talks over Eze since last week but now look set to miss out on their top transfer target. With James Maddison set to miss the majority of the season after suffering a serious knee injury and Dejan Kulusevski also facing a significant spell on the sidelines, Spurs have been keen to add some more creativity to the squad. Missing out on Eze is a major blow for Spurs and leaves them scrambling for alternative options before the window closes on September 1.
Eze is a boyhood Arsenal fan and started his youth career at the Gunners' academy. He is contracted with Crystal Palace until 2027. Crystal Palace understand that the 27-year-old wants to take the next step in his career and are ready to part ways with the attacking midfielder.
Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner insists that Eberechi Eze will play for Crystal Palace as long as he remains at the club. Glasner confirmed that Eze would start in Crystal Palace's Conference League play-off first leg against Fredrikstad on Thursday. He stated that it is always the right of a club and the duty of a player to give 100 per cent as long as he is under contract.
Arsenal have been monitoring Anthony Gordon of Newcastle United. However, to make any move, Arsenal will need to generate funds through sales. Several players are expected to depart, with Jakub Kiwior and Fabio Vieira considered candidates to leave. Arsenal are also reportedly tracking AC Milan winger Rafael Leao. Another attacker Arsenal have been linked with is Real Madrid's Rodrygo.