Spurs tipped to revive Eze interest following Maddison setback | OneFootball

Jermain Defoe Calls for Spurs to Revive Eze Interest

Tottenham Hotspur’s pre-season optimism has been tempered by the devastating news that James Maddison will miss most of the 2025/26 campaign following ACL surgery. For Jermain Defoe, the solution is clear: Eberechi Eze.

Speaking on talkSPORT, the former Spurs striker described Eze as “someone who, if this makes sense, is a Tottenham player… someone who plays with freedom… another special footballer.” It is the kind of endorsement that goes beyond sentiment. Defoe believes Eze could elevate Spurs immediately, filling the creative void Maddison’s absence leaves behind.

Transfer Race Intensifies

Eze’s stock has rarely been higher. The Crystal Palace playmaker, 27, is one of the Premier League’s most inventive attacking midfielders and remains under contract at Selhurst Park until 2027. His £68 million release clause, according to the reports, expires on 15 August.

Photo: IMAGO

Spurs had previously considered a £45 million downpayment, with the rest in instalments, but their interest cooled earlier in the summer. Maddison’s injury, however, may shift the club’s priorities.

Voices Urging Caution Over Arsenal Move

Despite Arsenal’s interest, not all former pros believe the move would suit Eze. Mikael Silvestre, who spent two seasons at the Emirates, told Hajper:

“I don’t think it’d be good for him… there is a lot of competition and… so much joy and freedom at Crystal Palace.”

Rio Ferdinand echoed the sentiment on his YouTube channel, questioning where Eze would fit:

“Why do [Arsenal] need Eze?… He’d play where Declan Rice plays.”

Numbers That Prove Eze’s Value

Last season, Eze made 43 appearances for Palace, scoring 14 goals and providing 11 assists. Those figures speak to a player capable of unlocking defences and carrying a team’s creative burden — qualities Spurs could use more than ever in Maddison’s absence.

Whether Spurs reignite their pursuit or Arsenal press ahead, Eze’s next move could be one of the defining transfer stories of the summer.