Romano confirms Arsenal face Tottenham hijack

Robin Bairner

14 Aug 2025 12:30 BST
4 min read

Fabrizio Romano says that there is a transfer battle brewing in North London, where Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur are set to go head-to-head to sign Crystal Palace ace Eberechi Eze.

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FootballTransfers has reported that the Gunners are well placed to sign Eze, but Spurs are now trying to block that move with a counteroffer of their own, Romano claims.

Thomas Frank’s men are seeking a replacement for the long-term injured James Maddison and have earmarked the 27-year-old as the man they want.

Current ETV

Eberechi Eze

AM, M (C), F (L)

C. Palace

Eberechi Eze

AM, M (C), F (L)

C. Palace

ETV Range

€48.8M - €59.6M

Romano reports on X: “Tottenham are prepared to open formal talks with Crystal Palace for Eberechi Eze.

“The plan to return to the table, reported two days ago, is 100% confirmed.

“It’s also confirmed that Eze would be keen on a move to Tottenham - if the two clubs can agree on a fee.”

Uncertainty over Palace demands

Although Eze had a release clause, which expires on 15 August. FootballTransfers understands that Arsenal had come close to agreeing terms with Palace over a transfer fee, but Tottenham’s renewed interest could change that position.

Thomas Frank’s side value the player around the €64m (£55m) fee they paid for West Ham for Mohammed Kudus, according to TalkSport. This is someway below the €79m (£68m) figure presently in the release clause and could prevent a deal coming to fruition.

Palace are unlikely to get a significantly better offer for the moment. Arsenal have also valued Eze, who has two years left to run on his Selhurst Park contract, around the €64m mark.

TalkSport casts doubt as to whether a deal can be done at this level, stating: “It remains to be seen whether Palace engage at a number below the clause valuation even after it expires.”

Nevertheless, it states that Eze is open to the possibility as he wants Champions League football and, ideally, to remain in London.

What is also clear is that Tottenham are trying to hurry a deal through to beat Arsenal to Eze, with their chase given fresh impetus by Maddison’s lengthy absence.

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