Chelsea activate rival playmaker’s £35m release clause

Chelsea believe to have activated a £35m release clause for Crystal Palace winger Michael Olise

As per an exclusive from David Ornstein for The Athletic (subscription required), Chelsea have activated a release clause worth £35m to sign young French winger Michael Olise from London rivals Crystal Palace.

Almost 24 hours ago, it was revealed in the Daily Mail that the Blues are close to agreeing on personal terms with Olise. It feels as if this transfer is just a matter of time.

If the 21-year-old signs for Chelsea in the coming days, he might not be straightaway available for the playing squad as he is recovering from the hamstring injury sustained during the U21 European Championship.

Olise started his career as a youth player at Reading before moving to Palace in the summer of 2021. The young Frenchman has scored six goals and assisted 19 in 71 appearances in all competitions for the Eagles.

Although the 21-year-old mostly operates as a right winger, he is comfortable playing as a number 10 or as an attacking number eight.

With regard to attributes, the Frenchman is technically strong on the ball, can carry it for long distances in transition, does create a lot of chances and has a wicked delivery from set-pieces.

At 21, he is at an age where Mauricio Pochettino can not only his potential but also unearth a few more qualities he has on the field.

Considering the market trend, especially this summer with the Saudi League intervention, £35m for a young, Premier League-proven winger is business well done by Chelsea.

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Moreover, we know that Manchester City were also interested in Olise. So, to make sure that the Frenchman comes to Stamford Bridge instead of going to Manchester signals a big coup for the Blues.