Lack of Champions League football hindering Manchester United pursuit of Michael Olise

According to a Telegraph report, Chelsea have amped up their pursuit of Crystal Palace star Michael Olise, who has also been subjected to interest from Manchester United.

Despite injury concerns in the 2023/24 season, the 22-year-old continued producing some scintillating performances for the Eagles, who under new coach Oliver Glasner finished their Premier League campaign on a high note.

Olise’s current contract at Palace, extended only last year, reportedly has a release clause of £60 million that can only be activated by a Champions League-playing club.

This is problem for both Chelsea and United, who will be playing Europa Conference League and Europa League football next season, respectively.

Chelsea still have the upper hand in the situation, however, given they had already agreed personal terms with Olise last summer before he extended his contract and have done so again this time round.

Olise’s £100k-a-week contract at Palace is currently set to run until June 2027.

🚨 Chelsea contact Crystal Palace about signing Michael Olise. #CFC expressed interest in 22yo winger + requested permission to talk with reps (#CPFC deal includes ~£60m release clause). Other clubs retain strong interest @TheAthleticFC after @MirrorDarren https://t.co/O1NhA9r5YA

— David Ornstein (@David_Ornstein) June 13, 2024

Man United are better off not pursuing Olise

A Champions League club may swoop in at the last moment to prise Olise off Chelsea’s hands, but it’s evidently clear that the player is keen on a move to the Blues regardless of what European competition they play in next season.

£60 million for a player interested in playing elsewhere and coming off an injury-ridden season is not something United need to and should entertain at this point of their rebuilding process. They need smart, thrifty signings if they’re going to reinforce their midfield positions.

More Manchester United News-

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In short, United ought to steer clear away from the Olise situation, which feels like it will drag out over the summer.