Crystal Palace boss Oliver Glasner has hinted that Eberechi Eze will remain available for the club’s historic first European fixture — despite Tottenham continuing negotiations for the midfielder.
Eze, long linked with a switch to Spurs this summer, was surprisingly named in the starting XI for Sunday’s 0-0 draw at Chelsea after overnight talks between the two clubs stalled. The England international even had the ball in the net at Stamford Bridge, only to see his second-half free-kick disallowed for a foul in the wall by Marc Guehi.
With Palace preparing for their Conference League play-off first leg against Fredrikstad on Thursday, Glasner now expects Eze to feature, at least until there is a breakthrough in talks. Spurs remain keen but are yet to agree a final package, particularly with the player’s £68m release clause having expired last week.
Glasner Confirms Eze Availability
“Eb should have scored a goal today, he had one and it was disallowed. He will come tomorrow to the training ground, Tuesday off, we take Wednesday and I expect him to be back playing for us against Fredrikstad.” — Oliver Glasner
Glasner’s words underline Palace’s determination to use their star man until any transfer is formally agreed, with Eze still central to their plans both domestically and in Europe.
Tottenham Talks Still Alive
Standard Sport report that Eze was originally set to be left out of the squad at Stamford Bridge, with Palace anticipating a deal would be struck over the weekend. But with no breakthrough, Glasner opted to keep him involved.
Spurs are still favourites to land the midfielder, yet are expected to negotiate a fee lower than the original £68m clause. That could extend the saga into the final two weeks of the transfer window.
Eberechi Eze vs Chelsea – Key Stats (Premier League, Aug 2025)
| Stat | Eberechi Eze |
|---|---|
| Minutes Played | 84′ |
| Shots on Target | 2 |
| Key Passes | 1 |
| Dribbles (Successful) | 3 (2) |
| Ground Duels Won | 8 (4) |
| Pass Accuracy | 76% |
Summary: Eze was Palace’s brightest attacking spark at Stamford Bridge, registering two shots on target, one key pass and completing two successful dribbles. His duel work (winning 4 of 8) and ability to carry the ball through midfield stood out, even if his disallowed free-kick denied him a headline moment.
Analyst Verdict
Palace are playing a pragmatic game: until Spurs meet their terms, Eze remains a Palace player and a match-winner on the pitch. His involvement at Chelsea was a clear statement — he’s still reliable, still professional, and still producing.
For Tottenham, this is about timing. Ange Postecoglou has identified Eze as a creative solution, but Spurs’ reluctance to meet Palace’s full demands could drag negotiations to deadline day. From reviewing Eze’s recent form, his influence is still vital, and losing him late in the window would leave Palace little time to find a replacement.
Key Insights
- Eze started against Chelsea despite Tottenham talks continuing.
- His goal at Stamford Bridge was disallowed after VAR review.
- Glasner expects him to feature in Thursday’s Conference League play-off.
- Spurs are trying to negotiate below the £68m release clause.
- Transfer saga may stretch towards the deadline.
What’s Next
Crystal Palace host Fredrikstad on Thursday in their first-ever European match, with Eze likely to start. His creativity and set-piece threat could be decisive in setting the tone for the tie.
Tottenham, meanwhile, are expected to continue talks this week, with Postecoglou keen to secure Eze’s arrival before the end of August. If Palace resist further, Spurs could either raise their offer or risk missing out on their top target.
Should Palace hold firm on Eze’s value — or cash in before Spurs look elsewhere?
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