Chelsea submit opening bid for former academy prospect now impressing for London rival

Chelsea have made an initial bid for Crystal Palace star Michael Olise

Chelsea have sent an opening bid of £39 million for former academy player and Crystal Palace star Michael Olise as they seek to reinforce their frontline ahead of the 2023-24 season.

According to RMC Sport, (h/t Express) the Blues first offer of £39 million also included add-ons. The youngster is also understood to have been seduced by the Chelsea project’ and already agreed on a deal in principle.

However, it could be tough to sign the 21-year-old as Crystal Palace recently lost Wilfried Zaha to Galatasaray, which could make Olise’s exit complicated. After all, the Eagles will not want to lose two of their key players in the same summer.

The Blues have sold plenty of players this summer, which has dented the depth and quality of our squad. While several young additions have been made, the lack of Premier League proven reinforcements is a concern.

Chelsea’s interest in Olise comes after the youngster enjoyed a breakthrough season with Palace where he registered 11 assists in 37 Premier League appearances. An all round attacker, the youngster is certainly set for bigger things and could make a difference to the Blues roster.

The west Londoners could get him for a cheap price, as transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano has confirmed a £35 million release clause in his contract at Selhurst Park. Manchester City are also interested and could prove to be an obstacle in our path this summer.

Because Olise is a Premier League product and is familiar with the demands of the league, he should be able to adapt to life at Chelsea with minimal difficulties. Additionally, at 21, he is still developing and could develop into a reliable player for us in the first XI. The sooner we re-sign him the easier it can make life for Mauricio Pochettino ahead of the new season.

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His signing would benefit Noni Madueke since it would ease some of the pressure on him to perform well in every game. Having already spent some of his formative years at Cobham, it remains to be seen if he is keen on a reunion this summer.