Crystal Palace star Michael Olise has reportedly decided that he would prefer a transfer to Manchester United rather than Chelsea, with both Premier League giants vying for his signature. Olise has impressed since making the step up to the top division, attracting several of Europe's elite clubs with Palace losing hope that they can keep hold of the 22-year-old. But Football.
London claim that Olise would prefer to head to Old Trafford as opposed to Stamford Bridge this summer, when it is expected that interest will be renewed in the France youth international. Chelsea remains interested in signing Olise, after triggering his £35million release clause in the summer.
However, he instead penned a new contract to remain at Selhurst Park while he recovered from a serious hamstring tear. Olise was at the Blues' academy until the age of 14 but has always been a staunch United supporter and the Red Devils do hold an interest in him, which Olise prefers to a Chelsea reunion.
Olise has a release clause in his new contract, though the exact figure is unknown, and as he remains sidelined until February it is unlikely that he will depart Palace this month.
The new release clause is said to be substantially more than the previous £35m, but United are keeping a close eye on Olise as they hope to bolster Erik ten Hag's frontline after Jadon Sancho and Antony have struggled to make the right-wing spot their own.
Olise had been tipped to become one of the first signings of the Sir Jim Ratcliffe era, though due to United's Financial Fair Play constraints it is unlikely that they would make a move until one or both of Sancho or Antony have been sold.
Palace do not want to lose Olise as he has been one of their bright sparks when fit this season, as Roy Hodgson continues to fight for his job, but the Eagles would be powerless if his release clause is met.
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