EXCLUSIVE: Olise transfer race blown open by Aston Villa

Steve Kay

• Updated: 8 May 2024 22:38 BST
• 3 min read

Exclusive

Aston Villa are confident they can outmanoeuvre Arsenal and Manchester United in securing the signing of Crystal Palace star Michael Olise, FootballTransfers can exclusively reveal.

We understand that the in-demand Olise aims to join a Champions League team next season and secure a spot as a regular starter, prioritising his playing time over sitting on the bench.

This development would undoubtedly be a big blow to Premier League leaders Arsenal, who value the France U21 international highly. But the prospect of regular game time is diminished at the Emirates due to established players like Bukayo Saka and Martin Odegaard having already cemented their roles in similar positions.

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As for Manchester United, their probable lack of European football makes securing Olise's signature highly unlikely.

The uncertainty over the Red Devils’ managerial situation also counts against them, particularly as Unai Emery has recently signed a new contract with the Birmingham outfit, meaning they can offer stability the Old Trafford side cannot.

Given Olise's desire to compete in the Champions League and secure a starting position, inside sources at Villa Park reveal that sporting director Monchi is confident in persuading the player to choose Villa over Arsenal and Man Utd.

Olise has star potential

Villa are known to be after a natural wide attacker in the summer and Olise would fit the bill perfectly for the Champions League-bound Birmingham side.

Data analytics experts SciSports indicate that the 22-year-old has the potential to become a key player at Villa Park and would very quickly challenge the likes of Leon Bailey to earn substantial game time.

Olise has been capped by the France U21 side but has yet to earn a call up to the senior squad.

Performances such as those he managed against Man Utd will only help add to his case for further international recognition, and the opportunity to play regular first-team football at a Champions League club like Aston Villa can only be of benefit to the winger.