Arsenal are in the market for at least one attacking player in the transfer window this summer as Mikel Arteta wants to strengthen the depth of his squad.
A winger may be targeted to add more speed to Arsenal’s attack, which is sometimes too slow in the absence of Gabriel Martinelli, as well as to provide quality cover for Bukayo Saka, who many feel starts too many games over the course of the season.
One such player on Arteta’s radar is Crystal Palace sensation Michael Olise. Despite some injury struggles, the Frenchman had an outstanding campaign at Selhurst Park, with 10 goals and six assists in 19 Premier League appearances.
Many clubs are interested in him this summer, but Arsenal will have the upper hand over some of them for one key reason.
Arsenal have the upper hand in the race to sign Michael Olise
A report from The Mirror has revealed that Arsenal, Chelsea, Manchester United, Liverpool and Newcastle are among the clubs interested in signing Olise this summer.
Olise is valued at around £60m, and is expected to depart Crystal Palace despite their strong end to the season under Oliver Glasner.
It is reported that Arsenal have the edge over all of these clubs except Liverpool, because they are participating in the Champions League next season.
Arteta’s side finished just behind Champions Manchester City, and will be competing in the Champions League again, having reached the quarter-finals this time.
Liverpool will be there as well with new manager Arne Slot, but if Olise is keen on competing in Europe’s top competition next season, his options will be limited.
The problems Arsenal face if they sign Michael Olise
Olise was recently described as a “perfect fit” for Arsenal, and whilst this may be true purely as a backup right-winger, in terms of the overall squad build this is far from the case.
As talented as Olise is, a huge-money deal to sign him this summer may not be the best move for Arsenal.
Olise plays on the right wing and cuts inside onto his left foot, like Saka. He is similar to the England star, and would be good cover for him, but recent reports indicated that he wants to be a starter at his next club, and this would not happen on the right at Arsenal.
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Arsenal may be better off pursuing a winger who can play across the front line or on the left, whilst also acting as a speedy outlet in behind who can play alongside Saka.
Furthermore, Olise’s injury record should serve as a warning to Arteta, and given his price tag, it may be too big a risk to add another injury-prone player to a front line which saw Martinelli and Gabriel Jesus struggle throughout the campaign.