The expected signing of Eberechi Eze has lifted the mood among Arsenal fans and completely changed the feel of this transfer window.
Arsenal have already been one of the busiest clubs this summer, spending close to £190m on six new players before the Premier League season even kicked off. Viktor Gyökeres arrived for around £64m, Martin Zubimendi joined for £60m, and now the capture of England international Eze is the headline signing that has supporters buzzing.
More than anything, Arsenal fans are celebrating because they beat their biggest rivals, Tottenham Hotspur, to his signature. Spurs had agreed terms with Crystal Palace and with Eze himself earlier in the week, but Arsenal swooped in at the perfect moment.
How Arsenal Won the Eze Race
The deal turned in a matter of hours.
On Wednesday morning, it looked as though the 27-year-old was heading to Tottenham. Palace wanted him available for their Europa Conference League play-off against Fredrikstad, which slowed down Spurs’ progress.
At the same time, Arsenal were holding an open training session. One player was missing – Kai Havertz, who was being assessed for a knee problem. Even though the full extent of the injury was unclear, it was enough for Arsenal to act on their long-standing interest in Eze.
By Wednesday afternoon, the Gunners had made their move. For Eze, the decision was simple. He grew up as an Arsenal fan, came through their academy as a youngster, and turning down Spurs for his boyhood club was a natural choice.
By the evening, the deal was out in the media – Arsenal had hijacked Spurs’ move, and their fans loved every second of it.
Why Arsenal Moved Late
Arsenal had been tracking Eze for some time but viewed him mainly as a number 10. With Martin Ødegaard nailed down as captain in that position and youngster Ethan Nwaneri signing a long-term deal, Arsenal were cautious about when to strike.
But Havertz’s injury and the chance to steal Eze from Spurs proved too good to ignore. It’s a case of timing, opportunity, and a little bit of destiny – with Arsenal re-signing a player they released at the age of 13.
Where Eze Fits in Arteta’s Team
The big question is: where will Mikel Arteta use him?
Eze is a creative maverick, one of the few players who can produce something unexpected. That is exactly what Arsenal have sometimes lacked when breaking down stubborn defenses.
- Left wing option – Gabriel Martinelli had an inconsistent season last year, and Eze could step into that role. From the left, he can drift inside and combine with teammates in tight spaces.
- Central role in attack – In some games, Eze and Ødegaard could play together as dual creators, especially when Arsenal need extra attacking threat.
- Transition games – His ball-carrying and passing make him perfect for end-to-end matches, particularly with Gyökeres leading the line.
- Defensive shape – Off the ball, Eze can easily slot into the left midfield role in Arteta’s 4-4-2 defensive setup.
In short, he gives Arsenal variety – something every title-chasing side needs.
How Fans Feel About the Signing
Eze has always said he plays to entertain, to get fans “off their feet.” That alone has already won over Arsenal supporters.
At Palace, he was a fan favourite, scoring 40 goals and providing 28 assists in 169 games, including his unforgettable winner in the FA Cup final against Manchester City. Palace fans adore him and, while they will miss him, many accept that his move to Arsenal is a natural step forward.
For Arsenal fans, it’s even sweeter. He chose them over Tottenham. He grew up supporting the club. He even once posted photos in an old Palace kit worn by Arsenal legend Ian Wright. Now, he gets the chance to follow in Wright’s footsteps at the Emirates.
For Arsenal fans, signing Eze is more than just adding another talented player. It’s about pride, passion, and the joy of beating their rivals to a player who grew up loving the club. That’s why this transfer already feels like a big win.
