Crystal Palace is asking for £60 million for Michael Olise, who is being pursued by Manchester United.
Crystal Palace are demanding a hefty £60 million fee for Michael Olise, with Manchester United interested in signing the talented midfielder. Olise has been in impressive form for The Eagles this season, scoring seven goals and providing four assists in just 15 appearances.
The Daily Express reports that a clause in Olise’s contract could force United to pay more than initially expected for his services. Palace are keen to hold onto the 22-year-old Frenchman, who came close to joining Chelsea last summer before signing a new deal with Palace. However, if a suitor meets his release clause, the Eagles would be unable to stand in his way.
Meanwhile, Arsenal are exploring alternatives to Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi. The Mirror suggests that a deal for the 25-year-old could prove difficult, prompting the Gunners to consider other options to bolster their midfield. Arsenal have been tracking Zubimendi for some time but face competition from Barcelona and Bayern Munich. The player himself is reluctant to leave his boyhood club, particularly as he aspires to play under his idol, Xabi Alonso, who coached him at Real Sociedad B. However, with Alonso deciding to stay at Bayer Leverkusen, Zubimendi’s future remains uncertain.
In other news, Chelsea players are reportedly standing by their manager, Mauricio Pochettino, despite the team’s recent struggles. The Sun reveals that the players remain loyal to Pochettino, even after their humiliating 5-0 defeat to Arsenal. Despite accusing his players of “giving up,” the Argentine coach is said to be generating a sense of unity within the squad. Chelsea’s expensive and young team believes that Pochettino is doing his best in challenging circumstances, including a lengthy injury list and a lack of experience. The players view Pochettino as an exceptional man-manager and would not react well if he were to be sacked.