Crystal Palace face real war in Michael Olise as Chelsea sniffs

As the summer transfer window approaches, Crystal Palace face an uphill battle to retain their star winger Michael Olise, with Chelsea, Newcastle United, and Bayern Munich all expressing strong interest in the 22-year-old French youth international.

On Thursday afternoon, David Ornstein of The Athletic reported that these three clubs have contacted Crystal Palace regarding Olise’s availability. Ornstein wrote on social media:

“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. Newcastle United + Bayern Munich contact Crystal Palace over possibility of signing Michael Olise. #NUFC & #FCBayern expressed interest on Wednesday before Chelsea today. All sought permission to speak with 22yo France youth winger’s camp @TheAthleticFC.”

Recent reports suggest that Olise is particularly keen on a move to Chelsea. Foot Mercato journalist Santi Aouna noted on social media: “Chelsea made contact with Crystal Palace regarding the possibility of signing Michael Olise. The 22 years old came close to sign to Chelsea last summer. Olise is keen on a move to Chelsea.”

Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner addressed the futures of Olise and teammates Ebere Eze and Jean-Philippe Mateta at the end of the season, expressing his desire to keep the trio at Selhurst Park.

“I hope all the players will be here. I know the club will do everything to ensure they will play for Crystal Palace next season. I think what we can show from the sports department is that we are ambitious and they can benefit and make a big contribution to being successful,” Glasner stated.