Arsenal legend could block Spurs from signing 'exceptional' Eberechi Eze replacement

Tottenham have reportedly found their replacement for Arsenal-bound forward Eberechi Eze but the deal could hinge on the approval of a Gunners legend.

Spurs looked set to sign the England and Crystal Palace star after he inspired the Eagles to victory in the FA Cup final against Manchester City in May.

Eze has also impressed on the international stage, having won 12 caps and scored one goal for the Three Lions since his debut in June 2023.

However, just as the deal appeared to be edging over the line, Spurs’ North London rivals hijacked it - luring Eze to the Emirates and leaving Thomas Frank’s transfer strategy in tatters.

To make matters worse, this is not the first time that Spurs have had their transfer plans scuppered this summer.

The 2025 UEFA Europa League winners were close to signing Nottingham Forest star Morgan Gibbs-White until his club convinced him to sign a new deal instead.

Nico Paz in action for Como (Image: Getty)

The Times has now reported that Spurs have turned their attention to a new target in the form of Como attacking midfielder Nico Paz.

The 20-year-old Argentina international is one of the most exciting young talents in Serie A after scoring six goals and producing nine assists in 35 league appearances last term.

But Spurs may face another hurdle in their bid to get their man, though, with Como managed by one of the greatest Arsenal midfielders of all time, Cesc Fabregas.

As a result, the Spaniard would surely have a say in any deal for the former Real Madrid star, who Toni Kroos has described as an 'exceptional' talent.

Fabregas enjoyed a superb spell with the Gunners between 2003 and 2011 before leaving to join boyhood club Barcelona.

Tottenham desperately need to sign an attacking midfielder after James Maddison was ruled out of the majority of the season with a torn anterior cruciate ligament injury.

Cesc Fabregas is head coach at Como (Image: Getty)

Spurs replaced Europa League-winning coach Ange Postecoglou with former Brentford boss Frank at the start of the summer.

His squad will have to compete on several fronts, including in the UEFA Champions League and Premier League.

Spurs finished a disappointing 2024/25 campaign in 17th place in the Premier League, but still qualified for Europe’s elite competition after beating Manchester United 1-0 in the Europa League final.