For Spurs, the collapse of the deal is a bitter pill. Thomas Frank had identified Eze as a priority signing, and his sudden loss to their fiercest rivals not only dents their recruitment plans but also hands Arsenal a symbolic victory in the north London rivalry.

Steve Nicol explains why signing Eberechi Eze is a "no-brainer" for Arsenal.

Arsenal Close In On Eberechi Eze TransferArsenal have moved decisively in the transfer market, with David Ornstein of The Athletic reporting that the club have reached an agreement in principle to

Eberechi Eze was Tottenham-bound until Thursday evening. Arsenal ruthlessly swooped with a £60million fee and personal terms swiftly agreed with another wonderful addition to the squad on the way having also dealt a shuddering body blow to their oldest rivals in the process.

Arsenal have launched a move for Crystal Palace attacker Eberechi Eze. Sources have told BBC Sport Arsenal will offer around £60m for the England forward, who is also wanted by Tottenham. More to follow.

Spurs had the conditions of a deal agreed with Palace on Wednesday but are ready to move on to alternative targets.