Arsenal could be dealt Eberechi Eze transfer twist after shocking injury blow

Arsenal could be braced for a transfer battle for Crystal Palace star Eberechi Ezein the next few weeks.

The Gunnershave been heavily linked with signing Eze this summer as they look to continue their transfer plans for this year's window.

There were reports that Eze had a £68million release clause in his contract with Palace, which is rumoured to have now expired.

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Arsenal are continuing to be linked with signing Eze, who could become the club's seventh new addition this summer after the arrivals of Viktor Gyokeres, Noni Madueke, Martin Zubimendi, Cristhian Mosquera, Christian Norgaard and Kepa Arrizabalaga.

Even though Arsenal are still being linked with a move for Eze, there is now the prospect of competition for his signature emerging.

On Sunday, Tottenham Hotspur were dealt a major injury blow when James Maddison was stretchered off the pitch during their pre-season draw with Newcastle United in South Korea.

Spurs boss Thomas Frank admitted the injury was "bad" but did not go into the details of the severity of the injury. Maddison was spotted leaving the Seoul World Cup Stadium on crutches and wearing a brace on his knee.

While it remains unconfirmed how long Maddison could be on the sidelines for, it has already led to rumours that Tottenham will need to go into the transfer market to replace the England international.

Eze has not been directly linked with a move to Tottenham, but he does play in a No.10 role, which Maddison has occupied for Spurs.

As a result, Arsenal could find themselves going head-to-head with their North London rivals for Eze if both clubs decide to pursue a deal for the Palace star.