By SIMON JONES and YASEEN ZAMAN, SPORTS REPORTER
Published: | Updated:
Eberechi Eze has asked not to be involved in Crystal Palace’s Premier League opener against Chelsea, fuelling speculation that a move to Tottenham could be edging closer.
The England international trained as normal with Oliver Glasner’s squad throughout the week, but he has now indicated he would prefer to sit out Sunday’s London derby at Stamford Bridge.
Eze’s request comes as Tottenham push hard to bring the 27-year-old to north London before the close of the transfer window.
However, it is understood that Eze is not sitting out Sunday’s game because a move to Tottenham is imminent.
Instead, it is believed that the player does not feel he is in the right state of mind to feature for Palace while he seeks a move away.
Spurs have been circling since the news of James Maddison’s ACL injury, with Eze identified as their No 1 target to fill the creative void.
Eberechi Eze has asked Crystal Palace to sit out their Premier League opener against Chelsea
The England star is keen to join London rivals Tottenham amid heavy transfer speculation
Eze’s £68million release clause reportedly expired earlier this month, with Palace now able to charge whatever they choose for their prize asset.
For the Eagles, Eze’s absence is a significant blow on the eve of the new campaign.
He played a starring role in Palace’s FA Cup triumph last season, scoring the decisive goal at Wembley, and ended the campaign with 14 goals and 11 assists across all competitions.
Not to mention, Palace are also at risk of losing captain Marc Guehi with the centre back being linked with Liverpool.
Meanwhile, striker Jean-Phillipe Mateta is also being monitored by a number of clubs.
Since joining Palace from QPR in 2020, Eze has made 167 appearances, scoring 39 goals and establishing himself as one of the most exciting attacking midfielders in the division.
