In a stunning revelation that will send shockwaves through North London, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has disclosed that Crystal Palace playmaker Eberechi Eze personally initiated contact in a desperate attempt to secure a move to the Emirates Stadium.
The extraordinary admission came during Arteta's press conference ahead of Arsenal's Premier League clash with Southampton, where the Spanish tactician laid bare the dramatic behind-the-scenes negotiations that unfolded on transfer deadline day.
The Phone Call That Changed Everything
Arteta confirmed that Eze himself picked up the phone and made the decisive call, expressing his strong desire to join the Gunners rather than their bitter rivals Tottenham Hotspur. This personal intervention forced Arsenal's hand, prompting them to launch a last-minute £67.5 million bid to secure the England international's services.
'He called me, he wanted to come,' Arteta revealed, highlighting the player's explicit preference for Arsenal's project over what Tottenham were offering. This personal appeal from Eze proved to be the catalyst for one of the most dramatic transfer sagas of the summer window.
North London Transfer Drama Unfolds
The revelation exposes the intense rivalry between Arsenal and Tottenham beyond the pitch, with both clubs vying for the same elite talent. Eze's preference for Arsenal represents a significant coup for Arteta's project and a psychological blow to their North London neighbours.
Crystal Palace, initially reluctant to lose their star man, ultimately found the substantial £67.5 million offer too compelling to refuse, especially with the player himself pushing for the move to the Emirates.
What Eze Brings to Arsenal
The 25-year-old attacking midfielder has established himself as one of the Premier League's most exciting creative forces, known for his:
- Exceptional dribbling ability and close control
- Eye for spectacular goals from outside the box
- Versatility across attacking midfield positions
- Proven Premier League experience
- Recent breakthrough into the England national team
His acquisition represents a significant statement of intent from Arsenal as they look to build on their recent title-challenging campaign and mount another serious challenge for Premier League glory.
The transfer not only strengthens Arsenal's squad significantly but also denies Tottenham a key target, making the deal doubly sweet for the red half of North London.
