Oliver Glasner issues clear message amid Eberechi Eze and Tottenham transfer latest
Oliver Glasner may have knocked the wind out of Tottenham's sails with an update on Eberechi Eze's situation at Crystal Palace.
Tottenham have ramped up efforts to sign Eze in recent days after James Maddison sustained an ACL injury against Newcastle United during pre-season.
Spurs are aiming for a top-five finish in the Premier League this season. As such, Daniel Levy has been keen to sign reinforcements in the window.
Mohammed Kudus is already considered a top player at Tottenham, while Joao Palhinha's transfer from Bayern Munich may turn out to be one of the signings of the summer.
But the Tottenham chairman may find bringing Eze to North London more difficult than first anticipated.
Glasner warns views to apply caution to Eze transfer news
Reports initially stated that Eze would not appear for Crystal Palace in their opening Premier League game against Chelsea on Sunday, 17 August.
However, Palace announced Eze in their starting line-up at Stamford Bridge just over an hour before kick-off after negotiations between Tottenham and Palace entered a reportedly "difficult" period.
Indeed, Palace plans to recoup an amount similar to Eze's £68million release clause, which expired on 15 August. Spurs, however, are hoping to agree a fee closer to £60m for the midfielder.
With club-to-club negotiations already strained, Glasner issued a definitive statement before kick-off.
When talking to Sky Sports in the mixed zone, he said: "Advice to all the children watching us not to believe everything you read in the newspapers.”
As a result, the Lilywhites may walk away empty-handed this summer after all.
Who could Tottenham sign as an Eze alternative?
While Tottenham still hope to sign Eze this summer, the Lilywhites may need to look for alternatives.
Bilal El Khannouss is another player on Spurs' radar who could be tipped to come in if Eze remains at Palace. While he is young, he has shown immense promise at Leicester City.
El Khannouss is as technical as he is direct on the ball and offers ample chance creation when playing behind a striker. He can also play on their wing, with a preference for the left-hand side.
There is no doubt that Eze is the more established player. But El Khannouss could grow into one of the best midfielders in the first division with time.
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