Manchester United are making plans for the upcoming summer transfer window, now Graeme Bailey has put doubt on one major signing.
The new era for Manchester United will truly begin this summer, with a squad overhaul expected to be on the cards.
Several positions are up for grabs and a dozen players are likely up for sale should the right offer come in.
The defence is likely a major priority, with midfield following closely behind. But despite this, it’s the right wing which has seen the most links for a transfer.
Specifically one player has been tipped as the top target for Ineos this summer, that being Crystal Palace’s Michael Olise.
This deal may not be as likely as it seems though, and now HITC Football’s transfer expert Graeme Bailey has explained why.
Manchester United may have to pay £70m to sign Michael Olise
Ahead of the summer window, it is Olise who seems to be possibly a nailed-on target, but Graeme Bailey isn’t convinced that the ‘wonderful‘ winger is Old Trafford bound.
Pointing out that Olise has a £70m release clause, he admitted he just doesn’t see the deal coming off.
He explained: “They are looking at him [Olise], but it’s not cut and dried that it’s United by any stretch of the imagination. He’s got a very large release clause, my understanding is it’s close to £70m.
“I think that’s a big ask for United in this window and to suggest he’s their number one priority. That’s not my belief. I wouldn’t say he’s the one United are desperate for.”
This makes sense, given the quality that Erik ten Hag currently has to play with on the right wing in Amad Diallo, Alejandro Garnacho and Antony.
Above this, £70m is a significant fee and more than the £55m release clause many thought he had. Being a release clause, this figure would need to all be paid upfront too which simply may not be achievable for United this summer with so many positions above this in priority.
Serious questions can be asked about Michael Olise interest
While there’s no doubt he’s a phenomenal player, Olise has some concerning questions surrounding him which need to be answered.
Firstly, his injury record this season has been atrocious and the last thing Ten Hag needs is another player he can’t rely on to keep fit.
Just 11 games this season for the Frenchman, and while he’s been seriously impressive in these games with six goals and three assists, it’s still an awful record.
Another question would be whether United need Olise, with it looking likely to become a stacked position at the club.
Garnacho is proving a revelation there and will only get better, Amad can play there and is likely to get a proper chance now, Antony is going nowhere while both Shea Lacey and Bendito Mantato are only a few years off being ready for first-team football – it’s not an in need position.
That being said he’d be a luxury signing which we could hardly say no to. It’s going to be a fascinating summer.