Arsenal\'s successful pursuit of Eberechi Eze stemmed from initial conversations between the player and Mikel Arteta in June, with strong club relationships ultimately proving decisive in gazumping Tottenham\'s weeks-long negotiations.
Arteta and Eze first spoke at the end of June when Arsenal explored a potential deal for the Crystal Palace playmaker. The Athletic reports that Arsenal\'s interest had seemingly waned since those early discussions, but the foundation had been established for Wednesday\'s dramatic turnaround.
When Eze faced signing with Tottenham on Wednesday, he made a crucial phone call to Arteta before committing. The timing proved perfect as Arsenal were reeling from Kai Havertz\'s knee injury and actively seeking attacking reinforcements.
Arteta informed Eze that Arsenal had a board meeting that afternoon. By the time the meeting concluded, an ecstatic Eze learned the deal was essentially complete. Arsenal struck an agreement with Crystal Palace for $81.2 million plus $10.1 million in add-ons within 24 hours.
The positive relationship between Crystal Palace chairman Steve Parish and Arsenal executive vice-chair Tim Lewis proved key to the transfer\'s success. While Arsenal had stepped back from Eze negotiations, they remained informed on proceedings through this established connection.
Negotiations between Tottenham and Palace had been difficult throughout their weeks-long pursuit. When Lewis and Arsenal emerged as alternative buyers, Parish was happy to accommodate the switch despite Tottenham\'s formal offer meeting all demands.
Arsenal\'s willingness to allow Eze to participate in Palace\'s Conference League qualifier on Thursday night demonstrated their flexibility. The deal represented a homecoming for Eze, who grew up supporting Arsenal before his academy release at age 13.