Man Utd chase transfer for Crystal Palace star Michael Olise as Sir Jim Ratcliffe prepares summer overhaul
MANCHESTER UNITED are eyeing up a summer move for Crystal Palace winger Michael Olise, according to reports.
British billionaire Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s 25 per cent takeover of the Red Devils was confirmed last month as he assumes control of football operations at Old Trafford.
Due to splashing huge sums on Mason Mount, Rasmus Hojlund and Andre Onana last summer, Man Utd are set to be restricted to loan deals in January.
But they are already planning ahead as Ratcliffe prepares for his first end-of-season transfer window at the helm – with plans to “overhaul” the squad.
This is being led by the businessman’s right-hand man, Sir Dave Brailsford, as he begins to identify targets.
According to The Standard, Man Utd are interested in making Olise, 22, one of the first signings of the Ratcliffe era.
The Palace forward, who was heavily linked with Chelsea in the summer, has scored five goals and provided one assist in nine Premier League games this season.
And he committed his future to The Eagles back in August when he signed a new four-year deal.
However, within his contract is a release clause that comes into effect at the end of the season.
The price is not known, but it is expected to have significantly increased from the £35million sum in his previous deal.
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It is understood Man Utd see Olise as a player who can go some way to solving their attacking problems.
Erik ten Hag‘s men have scored just 22 goals in the Premier League this season, with only Burnley and Sheffield United netting fewer.
And a number of their existing forward players could leave at the end of the campaign.
Jadon Sancho is expected to exit on loan in January with the possibility of a summer transfer.
Anthony Martial is coming to the end of his contract, while Brazilian Antony has received huge criticism following a nightmare 18 months at Old Trafford.
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