The prospective new owner of Manchester United, Sir Jim Ratcliffe, reportedly aims to make Crystal Palace winger Michael Olise one of the initial signings during his tenure as a shareholder at Old Trafford. Ratcliffe’s INEOS group is set to acquire a 25% stake in Manchester United, with plans for a sporting control takeover.
An anticipated overhaul of the club’s recruitment process is on the horizon, including the appointment of a new sporting director and changes to the backroom staff. While manager Erik ten Hag might have a reduced influence on transfers, he is reportedly prepared to voice concerns about this shift.
According to The Evening Standard, Manchester United has identified Michael Olise as one of the club’s first signings under the new ownership. However, any potential deal is likely to take place in the summer when a release clause in Olise’s contract becomes active. The specific amount of the release clause remains unknown but is reported to be significantly higher than the £35 million clause in his previous deal.
Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s INEOS group is not expected to complete the 25% buyout before the end of January, making the upcoming summer transfer window potentially Ratcliffe’s first full opportunity to shape the club’s squad.
France U21 international Olise is seen as a potential solution to Manchester United’s goal-scoring issues. The club hopes he can emulate the impact of Arsenal winger Bukayo Saka, with data analytics firm SciSports likening Olise’s style to that of a classic winger. Despite being perceived as less proficient overall than Saka, Olise is considered to have significant potential and is valued at €28 million in Expected Transfer Value (ETV). Acquiring Olise might present the first significant test for Manchester United’s revamped and more strategic transfer plans under the new ownership.