Paul Merson Criticizes Chelsea Over £55m Eberechi Eze Tottenham Transfer

Paul Merson has expressed surprise and concern that Chelsea have not made a bid for Crystal Palace's Eberechi Eze, despite the club's evident need for a creative attacking midfielder beyond Cole Palmer. Merson criticized Chelsea's current attack as predictable, relying heavily on quick wingers and Palmer to create chances, and believes Eze would provide the guile needed to break down defenses. Although Chelsea have been linked with other attackers like Alejandro Garnacho and Xavi Simons, who they are negotiating with RB Leipzig for, they have not pursued Eze, who is poised to join Tottenham in a deal reportedly around £55-60 million plus add-ons. Merson highlighted Chelsea's goalless draw against Palace as a worrying sign, emphasizing that if Palmer is neutralized by opposing teams, Chelsea lack alternative playmakers to unlock defenses. The pundit warned that Chelsea’s inability to diversify their attacking options might hinder their challenge at the top of the Premier League. Meanwhile, Spurs appear close to securing Eze, having moved ahead of Arsenal in the transfer race after Arsenal scaled back their interest.