How Chelsea would line up with Michael Olise

Cameron Smith

16 Jun 2024 20:30 BST
4 min read

Michael Olise, Chelsea, Crystal Palace, 2023/24 — © IMAGO

Chelsea have named Crystal Palace star Michael Olise as their priority summer transfer target as they look to finally sign the Frenchman after years of interest.

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Olise spent time in Chelsea’s academy as a youngster, while his brother Richard currently plays for the Blues’ U21 side, and the west London club are determined to bring him back to Stamford Bridge.

The 22-year-old was extremely close to joining Chelsea last summer, after terms were agreed, but he snubbed a move to the Premier League giants in favour of signing a contract extension at Crystal Palace.

However, Olise seems destined to leave Selhurst Park before the 2024 summer transfer window slams shut amid significant interest from Chelsea and Manchester United.

Arsenal, Newcastle United, Bayern Munich and Manchester City are also known admirers, with the France U21 star possessing multiple options as he ponders a possible summer exit.

Chelsea remain confident of signing the Crystal Palace winger, however, despite the fact they cannot offer Champions League football.

The Blues have advanced in talks over a move for Olise in recent weeks and a transfer to Stamford Bridge remains a high possibility.

If Olise does join Chelsea, how will Enzo Maresca set up his side next season?

STATS

Michael Olise

AM (CR), M (R)

C. Palace

Michael Olise

AM (CR), M (R)

C. Palace

19

Games
10

Goals
6

Assists

How Chelsea would line up with Michael Olise

Djordje Petrovic usurped Robert Sanchez as Chelsea’s first-choice last campaign and talk of signing a new goalkeeper has quietened over the past few weeks, suggesting the Serbian could keep his place in between the sticks.

Reece James remains the Blues’ preferred right-back, despite Malo Gusto’s form, while Marc Cucurella will likely play at left-back. Wesley Fofana and Levi Colwill represent Chelsea’s best centre-back duo, but the pair must remain fit, which has proven to be problematic recently.

Enzo Fernandez and Moises Caicedo will continue as a double pivot, with the Argentine’s recent groin surgery hopefully improving his form.

© IMAGO - Chelsea want to sign Crystal Palace winger Michael Olise

Cole Palmer will continue in a No.10 role, after ending the season in that position, while Christopher Nkunku may be shifted to a slightly unfamiliar left wing slot in order to accommodate Olise on the right flank.

Nicolas Jackson will lead the line after a promising, if not clinical, debut season at Chelsea.