This article was originally published on www.si.com as Report: Arsenal’s Pursuit of Eberechi Eze Dealt Huge Blow. Arsenal are reportedly poised to miss the deadline to trigger the release clause in Eberechi Eze’s Crystal Palace contract, which represents a major blow to their hopes of signing the sought-after playmaker.

Eberechi Eze ’s £68million release clause at Crystal Palace expires on August 15. Standard Sport understands the release clause remains active until that date, when the Premier League season begins with Liverpool hosting Bournemouth.

Arsenal have been heavily linked with a move for Crystal Palace star Eberechi Eze this summer, but it remains to be seen if the Gunners can strike a deal for the 27-year-old