Spurs close in on Eze deal

Tottenham and Crystal Palace continue talks over Eberechi Eze as a potential deal nears.

Spurs Close to Eberechi Eze Deal with Palace

Tottenham and Crystal Palace remain in talks over a potential move for Eberechi Eze, with negotiations continuing after Spurs opened discussions last Monday. Eze, 27, has emerged as one of Palace's most dangerous attackers since joining in 2020, contributing 40 goals in 169 appearances. Spurs have long tracked him, seen as a creative option to offset injuries to key players. The move would mark a London switch for the England international and could reshape the season’s balance in the league.

A release clause in the region of £68m reportedly expired on Friday, yet talks persisted as both clubs explored a deal that would satisfy Palace’s value and Spurs’ need for a playmaker. The conversations come as Tottenham search for creative reinforcements after James Maddison suffers a serious knee injury and Dejan Kulusevski is sidelined. If completed, the transfer would end Eze’s five-year stay at Selhurst Park, where he has developed into a top-tier midfield threat and FA Cup winner in May.

The stalled deal reveals how midseason planning has shifted in the Premier League. Spurs appear to prioritize immediate impact over long-term balance, betting on a proven creator to lift a squad hit by injuries. The risk is not only the £68m price tag, but the potential strain on wage structure if the transfer drags on. For Palace, selling Eze would signal a top-flight exit but could unlock funds for a rebuild. The London rivalry adds pressure to reach a quick agreement, raising questions about timing and sustainability.

Beyond one club’s immediate needs, this case reflects broader trends in modern football: big fees for creative attackers, a focus on playmaking, and the delicate balance between short term gains and long term strategy. Whether Spurs can justify the expenditure depends on Eze's fit within a new system and the health of Maddison and others.

Highlights

Time will tell if the risk pays off for a star move in a crowded market.