Arteta doesn't need Eze to win EPL, he has Martinelli, Trossard, Madueke - Ex-Chelsea star

Former Chelsea defender Frank Leboeuf has expressed doubts over Arsenal’s decision to hijack Tottenham Hotspur’s move for Eberechi Eze, questioning whether the Gunners truly need the Crystal Palace star.

Until Tuesday afternoon, Spurs were believed to be in pole position for the 27-year-old England international, with talks progressing positively.

However, Arsenal have reportedly swooped in and secure the forward, whose price tag stands at around £68 million.

The move comes as Kai Havertz faces a potential injury layoff. The German attacker, who featured in Arsenal’s 1-0 victory over Manchester United on Sunday, was absent from open training at the Emirates Stadium on Wednesday.

Speaking on ESPN FC, Leboeuf questioned Arsenal’s motives, hinting the transfer may be more about one-upmanship than necessity.

He said, “When you have somebody like Eze do you go for it at £68m when you already have Martinelli, Trossard, Madueke who can play on the left? I don’t know why you really need him either. It’s a big amount of money just to upset your biggest enemies.”

The World Cup winner suggested the Gunners already have sufficient attacking depth and warned that overloading in certain areas could destabilise the dressing room.

“I’m not saying or judging Eze, and not saying he’s not bigger or stronger or better than the others. I don’t think Arsenal need that kind of player to win the title. They already have players for that. I really think this is nothing to do with Havertz’s injury," he added.

Leboeuf also raised concerns about squad harmony, suggesting that a big-money signing like Eze could leave other players unsettled.

He said, “For me £68m for Eze, I’m not sure you need it. Don’t forget you need to find the balance of the locker room. If you bring Eze what do you do with Martinelli, Trossard or Madueke? People can’t play because that guy has come. Even if he’s more talented, you have to take everything into perspective.”

Eze scored nine goals in his last 13 games last season, including in the FA Cup final.