Arsenal have pulled off yet another transfer masterstroke as Eberechi Eze officially completes his move from Crystal Palace to the Emirates. The deal, worth around £68 million including add-ons, was dramatically hijacked from Tottenham Hotspur’s grasp, leaving the Gunners celebrating and their North London rivals reeling in disappointment.
For weeks, Spurs had believed they were in pole position to secure the 27-year-old’s signature. A full agreement had been reached with Palace, and the Lilywhites were already preparing to unveil him as their marquee signing. But Arsenal’s swift late intervention completely changed the course of events, with Mikel Arteta convincing Eze to choose the red side of North London instead.
The England international, who has been one of the Premier League’s most dazzling midfielders in recent years, admitted that his choice was not just about money or prestige. Instead, it came down to his desire to play alongside one particular Arsenal star — a player who has long been his inspiration. Shockingly, it was neither Bukayo Saka nor Emile Smith Rowe, names many would have assumed.
“I dumped Tottenham for Arsenal, not because of anybody but because of this particular Arsenal player,” Eze confessed during his unveiling. “It has always been my dream to play alongside him one day, and now that dream is finally coming true.” His revelation has left fans buzzing with speculation, as he carefully avoided dropping the actual name immediately, building suspense around the story.
Eze’s move is a huge statement for Arsenal, who have made it clear they intend to fight toe-to-toe with Manchester City for the Premier League title this season. With Kai Havertz sidelined through injury, the Gunners acted swiftly to reinforce their midfield and ensure Arteta’s tactical system remains fluid and dangerous.
Crystal Palace, meanwhile, lose a talismanic figure who was central to everything positive in their attack. Since joining from Queens Park Rangers in 2020, Eze developed into one of the most technically gifted midfielders in the league, capable of turning games on his own with his dribbling flair, quick feet, and sharp vision.
The transfer saga has further intensified the rivalry between Arsenal and Tottenham. Spurs were so close to landing their man, but the Gunners swooped in at the last moment, offering not only a lucrative deal but also a sporting project that appealed to Eze’s ambitions. Sources close to the deal suggest that Eze was particularly convinced by Arsenal’s recent resurgence under Arteta and the chance to feature in Champions League football — something Tottenham couldn’t offer this season.
Tottenham fans have reacted with fury online, accusing Arsenal of stealing yet another transfer target from under their noses. For Arsenal fans, however, this is being celebrated as yet another victory in the eternal North London derby — a battle that extends far beyond the pitch and deep into the transfer market.
Eze is scheduled to undergo his medical on Friday, with official confirmation of the deal expected shortly after Palace’s Europa Conference League fixture. Once completed, he will sign a five-year deal with Arsenal, tying his future to the Emirates until 2030.
As for the player who inspired him to choose Arsenal, Eze has promised to reveal his name officially during his first full interview with the club after his medical. The mystery surrounding this revelation has created even more hype among supporters, who are eager to know which Gunner holds such influence over the new signing.
One thing is certain — Arsenal’s squad has just become significantly stronger. With Martin Ødegaard pulling the strings, Bukayo Saka providing goals from the wing, and Gabriel Jesus leading the line, the addition of Eberechi Eze brings another creative spark and match-winning ability to an already dangerous team. For Arteta, this is not just about adding depth but about building a squad capable of conquering England and Europe.
For Tottenham, it will sting for years that their dream signing has joined their fiercest rivals. For Arsenal, it is a bold reminder to the football world: the Gunners are back, and they are not afraid to win battles both on and off the pitch.
