Arsenal is reportedly entering the competition to secure the signature of Crystal Palace winger Michael Olise, joining a host of other top Premier League clubs in the pursuit. Olise, 22, has emerged as a standout player for the Eagles since his arrival from Reading in 2021, boasting 11 goals and 20 assists in 80 appearances across various competitions.
Despite a successful stint, speculation surrounds Olise’s future due to a release clause exceeding £50 million in his new contract, signed in August 2023 and valid until 2027. Manchester United has expressed interest, while Chelsea, Liverpool, and Manchester City are also monitoring the player’s performances at Palace.
Adding to the mix, Arsenal, informed of Olise’s release clause, is now prepared to compete with its Premier League counterparts for his services. The player, who initially joined Arsenal’s development academy in 2009 before progressing through Chelsea, Manchester City, and Reading, has become a sought-after talent in the transfer market.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta aims to strengthen the team’s offensive options, although securing a new center-forward appears to be the club’s primary focus over signing a winger. The Gunners, facing recent struggles in the final third, are contemplating significant investments in a striker. Names like Brentford’s Ivan Toney, Napoli’s Victor Osimhen, and Al Ittihad’s Karim Benzema are reportedly high on Arsenal’s list of targets.
While Olise’s prowess as a winger could address some of Arsenal’s offensive concerns, the club’s strategic priority leans towards acquiring a clinical center-forward to bolster their attacking prowess. The race for Olise’s signature adds another layer of competition to the dynamic transfer market as top clubs vie for promising talents to enhance their squads.