Arsenal look set to be dealt Eberechi Eze blow – here’s why a deal with the Gunners never accelerated

Tottenham Hotspur’s sudden push for Eberechi Eze has caused ripples of frustration among Arsenal fans, especially those who believed the Crystal Palace star was destined for the Emirates this summer. For weeks, the Gunners’ interest in Eze simmered quietly in the background, but recent developments suggest they may now be overtaken by their fiercest North London rivals.

Had a poll been taken among Arsenal supporters at the start of the week asking which single player they wanted to see signed before the transfer window slammed shut, Eze’s name would almost certainly have topped the list. His creativity, dribbling ability, and knack for game-changing moments have made him one of the most admired midfielders in the Premier League.

For many, the idea of Eze in an Arsenal shirt has been an exciting prospect all summer. He possesses the versatility to operate on the left flank or centrally, bringing that unpredictable “maverick” element that Mikel Arteta’s attack has arguably lacked. Despite some promising displays from new arrivals and existing wingers, the left-hand side still feels like it could use a refresh — and Eze’s skillset fits that need perfectly.

Yet, the reality is that Arsenal’s pursuit has never gone beyond interest. While fans have hoped for movement, the club’s transfer activity this summer has been largely focused on strengthening other areas and balancing the books. Arteta has overseen significant spending in recent months, but with minimal income from player sales, the emphasis internally has shifted toward moving out surplus players before any more major signings are made.

This cautious approach has given Tottenham an opening — one they appear eager to exploit. Spurs’ urgency stems in part from James Maddison’s injury, which has left a creative gap in their midfield. In response, they have stepped up talks with Crystal Palace in a bid to secure Eze’s signature before the competition stiffens further.

While Arsenal’s admiration for Eze hasn’t cooled, the timing has always suggested this was a deal more likely to happen late in the window — if at all. Had contract talks with young star Ethan Nwaneri broken down, there’s every chance the Gunners would have moved quicker for Eze. But with Nwaneri committing his future to the club, that urgency never materialised.

The financial reality is another hurdle. Arsenal’s spending power this summer has been heavily tied to outgoings, and right now, there are no imminent high-value sales. Without those departures, committing upwards of £60–70 million for Eze is difficult to justify — especially when other targets and squad needs remain in the mix.

From Eze’s perspective, there’s no public sign he’s agitating for a move. He remains central to Palace’s plans and has shown no inclination to push for an exit. That stability has perhaps also played a role in Arsenal’s slower approach; they know Palace are under no immediate pressure to sell. But with Tottenham now accelerating talks, the risk of losing out is becoming very real.

Tottenham’s interest changes the dynamic significantly. Not only would Arsenal miss out on a player many feel could elevate their attack, but they could see him thrive across North London instead. For a fan base that already endured frustration over missed opportunities in past windows, watching Eze light up the Premier League in a Spurs shirt would sting.

Whether this situation jolts Arsenal into action remains to be seen. Arteta has openly acknowledged that the club is still looking to do business before the deadline, but he has also been clear that incomings depend on outgoings. Without a major sale in the coming days, the Gunners may have no choice but to watch Tottenham move into pole position.

In the end, the Eze saga is a reminder of how fine the margins can be in the transfer market. A mixture of timing, financial constraints, and strategic priorities has left Arsenal vulnerable to being beaten to a player who, in another summer, might have been a marquee signing. For now, all eyes will be on whether the Gunners change course — or let their rivals steal one of the most exciting talents in the league from right under the