Two London clubs, Arsenal and Chelsea are set to battle for the signature of Reading youngster Michael Olise as his stay with the Championship club is no longer guaranteed.
Football Insider reports that Michael Olise has a release clause of £8 million which makes him affordable but more to his fee is the quality he has to offer both London clubs.
The French-born has impressed with his recent form, having scored two goals and supplying three assists in his first nine appearances as an attacking midfielder for the Royals in the 2020/21 Championship.
The 18-year-old is referred to as “fearless” and “a real talent” by Madejski Stadium team-mate Sam Baldock.
TEAMtalk had earlier reported that a number of English clubs, including Chelsea, Liverpool, Wolves, Everton and Leeds, have all been monitoring the player but Leeds are believed to have shown real interest in signing a young midfielder, having failed to secure Michael Cuisance in the summer window.
- Neville reveals biggest season’s mistake Chelsea almost made
- “He has his heart set on Man United” pundit claims of target
- The two deals Ed Woodward wants to sanction in coming weeks
For top English clubs, Arsenal and Chelsea are also keen as they seek to invest in their youth teams, knowing that he lacks the quality to make the first team of the various clubs.
Outside England, the likes of Napoli, Monaco and Borussia Dortmund are also keen on securing his services.
Chelsea already have an idea of Michael Olise’s quality as he was with the West London outfit during his youth football days before signing for Reading in 2016.
Reports claim he is refusing a new deal form the club and that makes him available as he has less than 13 months on his current contract. The Royals will have to sell to avoid losing him for free.
Howbeit, Arsenal manager, Mikel Arteta is known to have given the likes of Bukayo Saka, Ainsley Maitland-Niles, and Riess Nelson an opportunity with the first team. That gives major hope to Michael Olise of getting the chance at the Emirates Stadium.
