Eberechi Eze could be tempted to snub a move to Tottenham after a recent Crystal Palace development.
Tottenham have long been linked with a move for Eze, who could help Thomas Frank make an instant impact in North London.
The Crystal Palace playmaker’s stock has never been higher after he netted the winner in the FA Cup final against Manchester City last season.
As a result, his future at Selhurst Park looks uncertain, although the 26-year-old might be more tempted to remain in South London after recent developments.
Crystal Palace could now play in the UEFA Europa League
Tottenham are favourites to sign Eze if the midfielder decides to leave Palace this summer.
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Eze’s goal against City at Wembley not only secured Crystal Palace their first major honour but also helped the Eagles qualify for next season’s UEFA Europa League.
However, UEFA rules prevent individuals from having a decisive influence on more than one club in the same European competition.
Therefore, as John Textor has shares in both Palace and Lyon, the Premier League side are at risk of being excluded from next season’s Europa League.
However, as reported by The Guardian on Monday (23 June), Woody Johnson has agreed a deal to buy Textor’s Palace shares, and a sale to the New York Jets owner is likely to be approved by the Premier League within four weeks.
A decision on Palace’s participation in the Europa League is expected this week, and it is now believed that the latest development will be favourably received by UEFA.
A positive verdict for Palace could come as a huge blow to Tottenham’s transfer plans, as Eze could now be tempted to compete with the Eagles in the Europa League.
There is every chance that the midfielder could still be seduced by a move to Tottenham, where he would be playing in the UEFA Champions League. However, Palace’s involvement in Europe does leave the England international with a decision to make.
Tottenham should push for Eze
Eze is a versatile player who will improve Spurs’ chances in Europe massively next season.
While the Englishman is most comfortable in the midfield, he can also play on the left flank, which would grant Frank several options.
It would be in Tottenham’s best interests to begin negotiations with Palace before the final verdict to ensure that Eze is a Spurs player next season.