Ally McCoist admits that he expected rumoured Tottenham Hotspur target Eberechi Eze to leave Crystal Palace this summer.
Early in the summer transfer window, many outlets suggested that Eze was one of the names at the top of Spurs’ wishlist and that the North London side were seriously considering a move for the attacking midfielder, who had a release clause of £60m plus add-ons (The Times).
However, it did not appear as if Tottenham or any other club made an offer for the England international, whose clause expired around two weeks before the transfer window closed (Fabrizio Romano).
It remains to be seen whether Ange Postecoglou’s men go back in for Eze next summer, with the clause reportedly set to become active again in 12 months (Daily Mail).
A few days ago, Palace chairman Crystal Palace chairman Steve Parish told Sky Sports that he was shocked that the 25-year-old did not generate more interest in the summer, admitting that he is delighted to keep hold of the player.
When Parish’s comments were put to McCoist, he told talkSPORT (04/09/24): “Actually, yes. I would agree with Steve Parish. I think he’s an outstanding talent. There was a period where it looked as though Guehi was leaving, Andersen was leaving, Olise was away, Eze had a question mark.
“At one point they were losing everybody. But I have enjoyed watching Palace recently, over the last 18 months or so. I am a little bit surprised [he didn’t leave] but delighted for the Palace fans.”
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It was well documented that the clause was quite complicated, with a significant portion of the fee needing to be paid upfront, which might have been why Tottenham and others decided against a move.
Lucas Bergvall’s impressive showing in pre-season might have also played a part in convincing Postecoglou and Spurs against a move for Eze.
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