Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur aren’t just rivals on the pitch – they have often found themselves at loggerheads in the transfer market too.
Arsenal have competed for the Premier League title over the past few seasons, so they’ll have the edge over their North London rivals in terms of the best targets.
However, the fact Tottenham somehow managed to get into the 2025/26 Champions League means they’ll have more pulling power than usual.
Eberechi Eze is one player wanted by both Arsenal and Tottenham, and a report has emerged suggesting the Gunners are hesitating a little, which could cost them.
‘No proper transfer bid has yet materialised’ from Arsenal for Eberechi Eze
It’s no secret that Arsenal remain interested in Eze, a player who could potentially establish himself as the Gunners’ first-choice left-winger.
In addition, the Gunners view the England international as someone who can provide cover and competition for Martin Odegaard.
However, The Independent’s Miguel Delaney has reported that Spurs have ramped up interest in the 27-year-old after the injury to James Maddison.
Arsenal are ‘viewed as the Crystal Palace player’s first preference’, according to Delaney.
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However, ‘the fact that no proper transfer bid has yet materialised means there is a chance for Spurs to move forward.’
Tottenham are reported to be putting together a package for Palace to sign Eze, who is said to be open to joining the Lilywhites.
It is reported that Arsenal’s preference is to sell first, rather than risk making such a big signing and then being under pressure to sell before the end of the window.
Interestingly, the report suggests the Gunners are looking for an out-and-out left-winger ahead of Eze, suggesting the Palace star is not their first choice on that front.
Eberechi Eze’s release clause
There have been conflicting reports on Eze’s release clause.
Fabrizio Romano reported on Tuesday morning that Eze’s £68million clause has expired already, but Charles Watts believes it will expire on Friday 15 August.
Delaney has also reported that Eze’s release clause is active until 15 August for this window, meaning Arsenal still have an opportunity to trigger it and not have to strike a deal with Palace.