Chelsea are hoping to sign Crystal Palace midfielder Michael Olise this summer amid competition from London rivals Arsenal.
A report from 90min claims that Chelsea are optimistic about beating London rivals Arsenal to the signature of Michael Olise. Apparently, the Gunners are keen on signing the 21-year-old French winger as well, and they would have to pay a fee of around £35 million.
Arsenal must look to bring in someone who can be a backup option to Bukayo Saka. Mikel Arteta needs to rotate his squad next season, especially now that Arsenal are in the Champions League. However, Olise is unlikely to join a club where he will not be a regular starter. Nonetheless, he remains a target for Arsenal.
The 21-year-old is one of the most promising young talents in the Premier League, and he has a big future ahead of him. The Crystal Palace winger scored twice and picked up 11 assists across all competitions. He could be a key player for most teams in the league. So it will be interesting to see if Arsenal are willing to provide him with first-team assurances.
Meanwhile, Chelsea are now confident of winning the race for his signature. The Blues could part ways with Hakim Ziyech soon, and the 21-year-old would be a quality replacement. However, his arrival would push Noni Madueke down the pecking order, and the English winger would have to compete with him for the starting spot.
Olise has already proven himself in the Premier League, and he is well-settled in English football. He will be expected to make an immediate impact at Stamford Bridge if the transfer goes through.
The £35 million asking price seems quite reasonable for a player of his ability, and Olise could end up justifying the investment next season itself. The 21-year-old is a technically proficient winger who will add goals, flair and creativity to the side.
Working under a coach like Mauricio Pochetino could help develop his game and the Argentine manager could get the best out of him. The French youth international is versatile enough to operate as an attacking midfielder as well, and he could be a key player for Chelsea in the coming seasons.