The Evening Standard reports that Manchester United is eager to capture Michael Olise, a forward for Crystal Palace, during the upcoming summer transfer season.
After taking over the club’s football operations, new co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe intends to supervise a significant roster revamp, and the Red Devils seek to strengthen their attack.
Olise’s January transfer has been ruled out, and INEOS has no intention of making any big additions this month as the Premier League works to approve his 25% ownership of Man United.
But arrangements are being made for the summer transfer window, and the Palace player is one of the main targets.
After nearly quitting the Selhurst Park team in the summer of last year, Olise inked a four-year contract extension in August.
The release clause in his new contract, which goes into effect in the summer, is likely to be much larger than the £35 million release clause in his previous contract, even though its exact number is unknown.
Since joining the Eagles, Olise’s all-around performances seem to have impressed INEOS.
After contributing to 13 league goals the previous season, the 22-year-old has five goals and one assist in nine league games this season.
Pep Guardiola of Manchester City was impressed by the France youth international in March, and the Catalan gave him a lot of praise.
“They are armed. Following a match last season, Guardiola remarked of the Palace trio, “[Wilfried] Zaha is there, [Michael] Olise, and [Eberechi] Eze, they are incredible strikers and they have incredible threat.”
“They are excellent attacking players and have poise.” It comes down to patience. They will waste time, so we must act quickly to complete it.
If the Red Devils are to regain their status as a formidable team, they will need top-notch attackers, and Alejandro Garnacho and Olise together in the final third would be deadly to opposing defences.
More attacking targets are anticipated, and if manager Erik ten Hag stays on at the Old Trafford club beyond this season, his roster may include some elite finishers next season.
