Tottenham might never get a better opportunity to finally sign Crystal Palace star Eberechi Eze.
Eze has long been linked with a move to North London, with the playmaker’s profile reaching an all-time high last season after he netted the winner in the FA Cup final against Manchester City.
While Tottenham already have James Maddison, it seems Spurs are reluctant to depend on the injury-prone midfielder as they identify targets who play a similar role to the Englishman.
Therefore, Eze could be a perfect signing, and events at Selhurst Park could open the door to a move.
Crystal Palace could be excluded from the UEFA Europa League
Tottenham are favourites to sign Eze if the midfielder does leave Palace this summer.
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The 26-year-old wrote his name into the history books at Selhurst Park with his goal against Manchester City at Wembley.
Not only did the strike confirm Palace’s first-ever major honour, but it also secured the Eagles a spot in next season’s UEFA Europa League – or so they thought.
Oliver Glasner’s side are at risk of being expelled from the Europa League because John Textor’s Eagle Football company, which holds a 43 per cent stake in Palace, also owns a majority stake in Lyon.
The French outfit are also set to compete in next season’s Europa League, and UEFA rules do not allow individuals to have decisive influence on more than one club in the same competition.
As Lyon secured a higher league finish than Palace, it is the Eagles’ place in Europe which is under threat.
This uncertainty presents the perfect opportunity for Spurs to swoop in and sign Eze. The Lilywhites are guaranteed to play in the UEFA Champions League next season, which could be enough to convince Eze to join.
As the biggest domestic European competition in football, the Champions League could still be enough for his signature even if Palace can play in the Europa League.
Tottenham should take a chance on Eze
Tottenham need to begin investing in experienced players, and Eze could be an excellent place to start.
While the 26-year-old does not have any experience in Europe, he was one of the standout players in the Premier League last season. He has also been a consistent creative threat for Palace over the years.
The midfielder has an element of flair to his game and can operate in many attacking roles. Whether in the midfield or on the wing, he has the vision and drive to create for his teammates.
Therefore, Tottenham should make the most of the uncertainty around Palace and sign Eze this summer.