Arsenal were keen to sign Michael Olise before his move to Bayern Munich in July 2024.
The France international has been a sensation for the German giants, scoring 20 goals and providing 23 assists in 55 appearances for the Bavarians so far.
Arsenal looked at Olise – who had a relatively low £50m release clause in his Crystal Palace contract – but unfortunately did not move fast enough to snap up the mercurial winger.
Now, the way in which Michael Olise handled his exit from south London looks likely to cause a delay as Arsenal attempt to sign his close friend Eberechi Eze.
How Michael Olise could cause Eberechi Eze pursuit to stall
Arsenal are ready to bid for Eze – who is keen on a move to the Emirates Stadium – and are aware of the £68m release clause written into his contract at Crystal Palace.
However, a new story from The Sun states that the England international is mindful of the respectful manner in which Olise left Crystal Palace, and is eager not to spoil his relationship with the south Londoners by pushing for an exit.
Eze is said to be grateful to Crystal Palace for giving him a chance in the Premier League, and would only depart SE25 if the deal left all parties satisfied.
That suggests Arsenal might have to cough up the cash and trigger his £68m release clause in full, despite the Gunners hoping to agree a fee below that amount.
Crystal Palace stance could make Arsenal deal possible
TBR Football understand Crystal Palace are open to accepting this £68m release clause in staggered payments rather than a lump sum, which makes an agreement more likely for Arsenal.
The Gunners have already spent £55.8m on Martin Zubimendi, and hope to sign Viktor Gyokeres from Sporting CP in a deal which looks set to cost around £65m.
Therefore, Arsenal would potentially struggle to finance a deal for Eze as well if Crystal Palace demanded the entire £68m fee upfront, so the opportunity to pay in instalments could prove decisive.