Arsenal outmaneuvered Tottenham to acquire Eberechi Eze for £67.5 million. The English player disclosed that he declined Spurs’ tempting offer since playing for the Gunners had always been a lifelong dream.
Eberechi Eze officially became Arsenal’s new signing with a transfer fee of £67.5 million, marking one of the biggest surprises of this summer’s market. Notably, Tottenham had initially led the race, reaching an agreement with Crystal Palace and prepared to offer an attractive contract to the English midfielder. However, within hours, Arsenal intervened and reversed the situation.
The reason Eze chose Arsenal over Tottenham wasn’t about money. The 26-year-old admitted that wearing the Gunners’ jersey had always been a “childhood dream.” In a conversation with legend Ian Wright, Eze revealed he had visited Emirates Stadium multiple times as a child to watch Arsenal play. Even during his time at Palace, every appearance at this stadium gave him a special feeling.“This is exactly where I want to belong.”
Tottenham reportedly made a generous offer, even proposing a salary twice as high as Arsenal’s. Yet, the appeal of the red and white kit and Mikel Arteta’s project were the decisive factors. Eze affirmed: “Arsenal has always been at the top, that’s what I aim for. I believe if something is meant to be, it will happen. And now, it has become reality.”
This deal is seen as a “stab in the back” that added humiliation to Tottenham. They hesitated during negotiations, allowing Arsenal to seize the opportunity and secure a spectacular win. For Eze, a childhood dream has come true; for Tottenham, it will be a major regret just as the new season begins.