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 £68m release clause is set to expire today with Arsenal still interested in a move for the Crystal Palace star, according to reports. Eze, strongly linked with Arsenal, has indicated he is keen on a move to the Emirates and agreeing personal terms is unlikely to be a significant issue.

Eberechi Eze is Arsenal's next attacking target after a summer which has already seen the Gunners revamp their forward line.