Manchester United are currently leading the race to secure the signing of Crystal Palace winger Michael Olise, according to information obtained by FootballTransfers.
The 22-year-old Olise has emerged as a standout performer in the Premier League this season, particularly shining in the second half of the campaign. In his last six games alone, he has contributed seven goal involvements, underscoring his growing influence and talent.
While Newcastle United have also expressed a keen interest in Olise, placing him at the top of their wish list, their hopes of landing the young star appear to be diminishing. Olise, who is reportedly a lifelong Manchester United fan, is leaning towards a move to Old Trafford. It is anticipated that he will depart Crystal Palace this summer, with a release clause of approximately €70 million included in the contract he signed last year. There are reports suggesting that this release clause is subject to a specific condition, though FootballTransfers has not yet been able to confirm the details of this stipulation.
Sources indicate that Manchester United are keen to bolster their right flank following a season marked by underwhelming performances from current winger Antony. Olise’s combination of Premier League experience and youthful potential makes him an attractive target for the club’s ongoing squad rejuvenation efforts, led by Ineos. Their interest in Olise is consistent with a broader strategy of acquiring young, high-potential players who can contribute immediately while also developing for the future.
In addition to their interest in Olise, Manchester United are expected to have significant funds available for the upcoming transfer window. However, these funds could be somewhat limited if they fail to secure a victory against Manchester City in the FA Cup final on Saturday.
Sir Jim Ratcliffe, the club’s new minority owner, plans to enhance Manchester United’s financial position by injecting personal funds into the club. This financial boost is projected to increase the allowable losses from €20 million to €122 million for this accounting period, providing the club with a substantial boost in its spending capabilities for the summer transfer window. Nonetheless, the actual amount available for transfers will depend on whether the team qualifies for the Europa League.
As Manchester United aims to rebuild and strengthen their squad, securing the signature of Michael Olise would represent a significant step towards enhancing their attacking options. The club’s strategic focus on young talent like Olise signals their commitment to both immediate improvement and long-term success. With financial backing from Sir Jim Ratcliffe, the club hopes to navigate the complexities of the transfer market effectively and restore its competitive edge in English football.