Manchester United are linked with a potential move for 22-year-old Crystal Palace forward Michael Olise. The French international is set to move away from the London club and is prized at 60 million Pounds. Chelsea is also linked heavily with the pacy forward and could present Manchester United with a difficult business to do. However, with the INEOS management and a shuffle at the staff level at Manchester United, it is still to be seen how they will navigate the Financial hurdles to complete the transfer of Michael Olise.
Here we dissect why Michael Olise will be a perfect summer transfer target for Manchester United. At just 22 years old, Olise has a maturity beyond his age that promises a bright future for the French international. His impressive stats and answer to Manchester United’s attacking woes make him a perfect target for the Manchester side, who have struggled on the right wing throughout the last season.
Stats and Versatility
Michael Olise's statistics have been impressive for Crystal Palace. During the last season in the Premier League, Olise scored 10 goals and provided 6 assists in his 19 appearances playing mainly on the right wing, making complete use of his explosive pace and dribbling skills to stand out as one of Palace’s top performers. His average of 3 shots per game and 1.9 key passes per game were one of the best in the league among forwards and playmakers, challenging the oppositions in the final third.
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Effectiveness on the Right Wing
Michael Olise played primarily as a Right winger with Crystal Palace where he had a very good attacking return. Much of his assists and goals came from the right wing except for a handful of goals and assists while playing in a central attacking midfield role. His average match rating of 7.61 in these roles is impressive, signifying his effectiveness in key attacking positions.
Strengths in Attack
Olise's strengths in attack answer perfectly what Manchester United's currently need, particularly on the right wing. His low crossing trait and ability to cut inside and deliver dangerous balls into the box can help Manchester United’s case on the wing, who had a difficult time particularly with players like Sancho and Antony struggling to find form. It was more evident when United deployed Aaron Wan Bissaka in the right back position where he seemed to fail at times to compliment his right winger in chances creation Though Garnacho showcased good returns on the right side whenever played, Manchester United still needs someone like Olise for his consistency and competition on the wing.
Challenges
While Olise has immense potential, the biggest concern last season was his long absences due to hamstring injuries, which sidelined him for 18 matches in the Premier League last season. However, with proper workload management, this issue can be managed. Manchester United’s medical team came under immense light in that regard when there were more than 50 injuries and illness throughout the season. This particular aspect will be important for Manchester United if they decide to have Michael Olise.
Long-Term Investment
At just 22 years old, the French international represents not only a current solution to Manchester United but also a long-term investment for the club. At just 22 and a market value of around £60 million, Olise has potential for long-term growth and possible resale value too, making him a considerable future investment at the price.
The Verdict
Michael Olise represents the perfect transfer target that Manchester United needs in an attacking forward. His attacking threat on the wing addresses a crucial problem in the current United attacking arsenal, offering both competition and depth in a position that has been important yet problematic this season due to inconsistent performances and chance creation. Olise can become a mainstay at Old Trafford and can be a very useful asset going into the new season for Erik ten Hag and Manchester United.
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