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 had a busy summer so far, signing as many as six players including Swedish striker Viktor Gyokeres from Sporting CP. The Gunners currently are eyeing Crystal Palace attacking midfielder Eberechi Eze but face a hurdle in the form of defending champions Liverpool.