It’s uncommon to see two stories unfold together that so clearly demonstrate how players and clubs should, and should not, handle themselves.

On one side, Liverpool have done just enough to unsettle Alexander Isak, while the striker reacts by sulking, refusing to train, play, or even engage in contract talks. Newcastle may well dig in their heels and deny him a move, and many neutrals would enjoy that stance from the stands.

In the other, Eberechi Eze continues training, playing, and keeping both his and his agent’s mouths closed, edging nearer to a dream switch to Arsenal at a fee acceptable to everyone.

Yes, there have been complications outside his control with Tottenham, but both clubs quietly let his release clause expire – which was their right – before seemingly agreeing on a price (around £60m) that works for all sides.

Eze has remained professional throughout, unlike Isak in the north-east and Yoane Wissa in west London. The crucial difference – aside from his character – is that he negotiated an actual release clause in his contract, not some vague ‘gentlemen’s agreement’. Palace were never going to sanction a sale under £68m until the moment they had to, and soon likely will.

When Eze last renewed with Palace, the England international believed in himself, requesting a precise clause – still fairly rare in English football – that would let him move up the ladder from one strong club to another. It is straightforward and leaves no room for debate. The only miscalculation was perhaps underestimating modern football’s obsession with players under 26.

“Most of you will be surprised they’re starting tomorrow given the rumours. But they are fully committed and will play a key role,” said Oliver Glasner on Wednesday when asked about Marc Guehi and Eze. That should excite, not concern, Arsenal supporters; they are signing a player who has behaved with great professionalism. His last outings for Palace will be wholehearted ones. While Liverpool fans question whether Isak justifies the noise, Arsenal can value Eze’s calm determination as a huge plus.

We had some playful fun suggesting Eze should pick Spurs over Arsenal, but the reality is the England midfielder always favoured the Gunners, because deep down he always would. He strengthens the left over Gabriel Martinelli and provides real competition for Martin Ødegaard centrally; Arsenal have landed a signing that looks failure-proof.

‘I can’t imagine any Palace fan ever booing Ebere Eze,’ tweeted the club’s most well-known online supporter. Alexander, take note – that’s what you could have been.