Arsenal's stunning coup to snatch Eberechi Eze away from Spurs is a ruthless statement of intent, says BBC chief football writer Phil McNulty

Former Chelsea star Frank Leboeuf has questioned Arsenal’s decision to hijack Tottenham’s move for Eberechi Eze. As late as Tuesday afternoon, Spurs appeared to be in the driving seat for the forward, with talks progressing over a deal for the 27-year-old.

Wright, as Eze hopes to imminently do, trod the now legendary path from south London to Arsenal. He has London spirit. London energy. London style. His personality, as well as his ability, is a big part of the attraction, and the connections he already shares with England team-mates at Arsenal ensure he would be welcomed with open arms.

Eberechi Eze is closing in on a move to Arsenal after they hijacked Tottenham's pursuit of the Crystal Palace star, but he risks following a similar career path to Jack Grealish at the Emirates Stadiu

Arsenal fans are understandably giddy after hijacking the hijack of their bitter rivals to sign a wonderful footballer in Eze, but why did they need Havertz to get injured?

For Tottenham, news that Eberechi Eze is on the brink of joining Arsenal will be a major blow. New boss Thomas Frank had targeted Eze after losing James Maddison to injury and the club had been confident of completing a deal.

Arsenal secretly secured a deal for Eberechi Eze, outmaneuvering Tottenham's delayed offer. The Gunners' decisive move, accelerated by Havertz's injury, highlights their strategic transfer approach and strengthens their title bid.

The Gunners look to hijack Tottenham’s attempts to sign the Crystal Palace winger in desire to strengthen their forward line