Crystal Palace attacking midfielder Eberechi Eze has been linked with a move to Tottenham in the final weeks of the transfer window.
Spurs are keen on Eze after they failed to secure the services of Nottingham Forest star Morgan Gibbs-White.
Thomas Frank wants Tottenham to sign new players ahead of the transfer deadline as Champions League qualification is the target for this season.
Eze expected to start for Crystal Palace vs Chelsea
According to Thomas Barclay, sources close to Eze indicated on Saturday that he was unlikely to feature against Chelsea on 17 August, hinting at a potential transfer.
However, the Sun journalist added, his inclusion suggests no deal with Spurs is close, despite their interest.
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The 27-year-old’s expected start for Palace could signal trouble for Spurs’ pursuit of the dynamic attacking midfielder.
If Eze was certain of joining Tottenham, he might have requested to be left out of Palace’s lineup to avoid risking injury, a common practice for players on the verge of a move.
His decision to play, coupled with the Lilywhites’ insistence that no deal is imminent, indicates stalled negotiations, possibly due to Palace’s firm stance on their £60million-plus valuation or Eze’s own hesitation.
Tottenham fans likely to be frustrated with Daniel Levy
This development could frustrate Spurs fans, who have long coveted Eze’s flair, creativity and proven Premier League quality, which are all attributes that could elevate Frank’s system.
Fan discontent may intensify toward Daniel Levy, already criticised for perceived frugality in transfers.
Failing to secure Eze could undermine Spurs’ top-four ambitions, especially after a mixed start to the season.
Palace’s willingness to play the England international suggests confidence in retaining him, potentially forcing the Europa League winners to pivot to other targets.
If the hierarchy cannot finalise this deal before the window closes, the backlash against Levy could escalate, with supporters questioning the club’s ambition and ability to compete with rivals who have been more decisive in the market.