Arsenal have reached an agreement to sign Crystal Palace star Eberechi Eze for £60m plus add-ons after weeks of hidden negotiations – www.isagoal.com reports.
The Independent revealed that the Gunners quietly struck the outline of a deal with Palace as early as August 10, well before Tottenham submitted their formal bid.
Sources said Palace chairman Steve Parish and Arsenal’s Tim Lewis had been in discreet contact, with trust between both men helping the talks move swiftly.
Tottenham, on the other hand, faced delays in their own discussions, as add-ons and upfront payments became sticking points during meetings with Daniel Levy.
One insider described Spurs’ talks as “almost done and constantly collapsing,” with Palace believed to be stalling while waiting for Arsenal’s final push.
Eze himself leaned toward Arsenal, having trained with the club as a boy, and insiders said his “dream move was always the Emirates.”
The Havertz injury sped up Arsenal’s action, convincing the club to complete a deal before Spurs could recover ground.
Arsenal eventually agreed to meet near Eze’s release clause, offering £60m and £7.5m in bonuses to beat Tottenham’s last proposal.
Queens Park Rangers also benefit from the deal, securing 15% of the fee through a sell-on clause.
This article was updated 2 hours ago