Arsenal star Bukayo Saka has given Tottenham Hotspur's backline a heads up about possible Spurs signing Eberechi Eze, raving about his capabilities.
After dazzling for England in Euro 2024 and bagging an impressive 11 goals with four assists at Crystal Palace last season, Eze has caught the eye of top clubs, including Man City, Liverpool, and notably Tottenham with the latter rumoured to be edging ahead in the chase for his £68million move, reports the Mirror.
Eze, who only stepped onto the international stage last year, played a key role from the bench under Gareth Southgate's command in Germany. Saka shared insights from behind the scenes with England, highlighting Eze's outstanding performance in training and how he stood out among the talents.
He said: "In training, I would say probably Ebs [Ebere Eze]. He has been class in training. He has impressed me the most, I would say." His words echo that of ex-QPR teammate Joel Lynch, who previously told BBC Sport not to underestimate Eze's skill: "I just wouldn't go near him [Eze]. He'd just do some madness and try and nutmeg me".
Lynch and Saka's acknowledgements are a clear testament to the attacking midfielder's flair, something Spurs' defence will have to get accustomed to if the transfer materialises, as they'll see his trickery up close in training sessions.
"Before the start of games, where everyone is giving each other high fives, I'd go up to him and say, 'Mate, score a couple now so we can all go home. Just win us the game, please'. He was that good. I actually thought at the time he could literally just win us the game. The only time I watch the Premier League now is to watch him play," Lynch added.
According to TalkSPORT, Spurs are leading the race for Eze, with negotiations reportedly at a 'more advanced' stage than City's, despite Pep Guardiola's firm interest in the player. This comes as Kevin de Bruyne is rumoured to be on the brink of a lucrative move to Saudi Arabia's Al-Ittihad.
If Spurs do secure Eze's signature for a reported £68m, the club's defence will certainly be put on notice during that first training session.
Lynch also pointed to a loan spell at League Two side Wycombe Wanderers as a turning point in young Eze's career, saying: "He was a brilliant player before he went but when he came back he was just a different animal. It was just mad. I don't know what happened to him but when he came back he was unbelievable, just a completely different player.
"Every bit of his game was better. He literally came back our best player. He was miles above the rest really. The way he carries himself is perfect. If any young lad coming through the game wants to look at a player it would be him, he's the prime example of how to be a professional. He's a class act."