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Manchester United’s new partial owners have identified the players they want to bring to Old Trafford this summer, and Crystal Palace’s Michael Olise is top of their hit list.
Recent newspaper reports have revealed that INEOS, who’ve taken control of football operations from the Glazers, have already chosen their big summer targets. Michael Olise is one of the players scouts have identified as a critical part of their transfer strategy.
INEOS has looked to identify a player who can address the lack of creativity that’s plagued United’s play this season. The massive gap between United’s 43.3 xG stat and the xG of the Premier League’s top teams shows how poor their attack has been in 2023/24.
A player like Michael Olise, who can progress the ball and is focused on providing for others, is who United need to improve their performances. His addition could help reduce the substantial criticism of United’s flawed style of play.
The midfielder’s injury record does raise some questions. The 22-year-old has missed significant time since moving to Palace, and adding another injury-prone player to a squad that seems to pick up more injury issues than most is a risk.
The young Frenchman is reportedly open to moving to one of the Premier League’s big clubs, with Manchester among his preferred destinations. A Proposed move to Chelsea last summer was scuppered when he signed a new contract at Palace. That contract is believed to feature a £60 million release clause.
In addition to Olise, INEOS staff have identified Jarrad Branthwaite as a player they want to bring in at the other end of the pitch. The young Everton centre-back has been one of the few bright lights in the Merseyside clubs’ poor season, but getting him would cost a significant fee.
The new owners are hoping a number of big-name departures will help fund their summer plans. Winger Jadon Sancho is almost certain to depart, and Antony is another attacking player who could move on. It’s also been suggested the club will finally resolve the Mason Greenwood issue by moving him on permanently.
These reports hold more weight than most, given it’s the new owners who are rumoured to be interested in the players. With manager Erik ten Hag’s future not clear, it makes sense for the newly appointed football operations team to handle future transfer planning.
