Arsenal have launched a dramatic late bid to snatch Eberechi Eze from under Tottenham's noses, with the Gunners now prepared to match Crystal Palace's £60million valuation for the midfielder.
The 27-year-old England international had appeared destined for Spurs after extensive negotiations between the clubs reached advanced stages.
However, Arsenal's unexpected intervention has transformed the situation, with the player reportedly favouring a move to the Emirates Stadium over joining their north London rivals.
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Eberechi Eze had informed Crystal Palace of his desire to join Tottenham but would prefer a move to Arsenal
| REUTERSThe Gunners' willingness to meet Palace's financial demands represents a significant shift from their earlier stance, when they had stepped back from pursuing the former Queens Park Rangers player.
Tottenham had been exploring creative solutions to secure Eze's signature, with reports suggesting they considered including Brazilian striker Richarlison as part of the transaction.
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The sudden twist came after Kai Havertz sustained a knee problem during Wednesday's training session, forcing Arsenal to reassess their attacking options.
Spurs chairman Daniel Levy had been in direct discussions with Crystal Palace counterpart Steve Parish throughout the week, with the clubs initially agreeing terms around the £50-60million mark.
Manager Thomas Frank had identified Eze as the ideal replacement for James Maddison's creativity following the midfielder's serious knee injury, making Arsenal's intervention particularly frustrating for their rivals.
Eze's connection to Arsenal runs deep, having spent time in the club's academy during his youth and growing up supporting the Gunners.
Eberechi Eze has been fantastic for Crystal Palace | ReutersThis personal history appears to be influencing his decision, with multiple sources confirming the attacking midfielder has expressed a clear preference for reuniting with Arsenal.
Negotiations between Arsenal and Palace are progressing rapidly, with the north London club demonstrating their commitment by matching the terms previously agreed with Tottenham.
The 27-year-old's impressive form last season, including nine goals in his final 13 matches and a winner against Manchester City in the FA Cup final, has reinforced his readiness for a top-level opportunity.
Arsenal's summer expenditure has already exceeded £200million, with Viktor Gyökeres, Martin Zubimendi, Noni Madueke, Cristhian Mosquera, Christian Norgaard and Kepa Arrizabalaga arriving at the Emirates.
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Kai Havertz is out for an unclear amount of time with a knee injury
| ReutersDespite earlier signing Madueke from Chelsea for £48.5million and securing teenager Ethan Nwaneri on a five-year contract, Havertz's injury has forced their hand.
Palace had insisted on delaying any transfer completion until after Thursday's Europa Conference League play-off against Fredrikstad, potentially working in Arsenal's favour.
Tottenham are now considering alternative attacking targets, with reports suggesting they could pursue Brentford's Yoane Wissa should the Eze deal collapse.