Why Eberechi Eze's proposed Tottenham transfer could be held up again as Crystal Palace plan ahead with their talisman

Tottenham have been strongly linked with a move for Eze this summer, but Crystal Palace are standing firm after his release clause expired. The midfielder impressed in Palace’s 0-0 Premier League opener against Chelsea, though his goal was ruled out in accordance with a rarely-enforced law. For now, the Eagles still see Eze as central to their plans, with two weeks left in the transfer window.

Glasner moved to play down speculation and stressed Eze’s commitment to Palace. He told reporters, “I expect him to be back playing for us against Fredrikstad.

“I’m sorry, it's nothing personal with all of you, but I said it's good advice to the kids, don't always believe what you read, especially on the internet and here's the same. Who knows that this is the truth, what is written? There are rumours and so many rumours and everybody tells somebody something for his own advantage, maybe.”

Glasner continued: “And again, if everything or most of the things that are written about them is true, they couldn't perform like this. The team couldn't be together like this. The team couldn't be committed to each other like they are. It's just not possible. So again, I'm quite calm. But I also know we have two weeks to go [of the transfer window] and I know Eb’s [release] clause is gone, so it's the club's decision, and we will see what happens.”

Eze’s release clause, previously set at around £60 million, has now expired, giving Crystal Palace full control over his future. Tottenham remain keen, but Palace are under no obligation to sell unless they receive an offer that they see as worthy. With the transfer window closing in two weeks, his situation could drag on until deadline day.

The England international is expected to play for Crystal Palace on Thursday in their Europa Conference League qualifier against Fredrikstad. Spurs are likely to continue pushing for a deal, but will need to test Palace’s resolve without the advantage of a release clause. For now, the midfielder remains firmly in Glasner’s plans at Selhurst Park.