Manchester United Considers Swap Deal for Olise

According to reports, Manchester United is looking to activate Michael Olise’s release clause by offering a player to Crystal Palace in a potential part-exchange deal.

The Red Devils are expected to have a quiet January transfer window, primarily focusing on departures before Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s new recruitment team takes charge for the summer.

Olise, who currently plays as a winger for Palace, has been identified as a future target, with his contract buyout clause set to become active at the end of the season.

The exact amount of the release clause remains unknown, however it is evident that it surpasses the previous £35 million buyout clause from his previous contract before he renewed it last year.

According to the Daily Star, Manchester United is willing to fulfill the release clause if necessary, but it is their last resort. The club is actively seeking alternatives to reduce the financial burden of the deal.

One potential solution being considered is a player-plus-cash exchange involving former Crystal Palace player Aaron Wan-Bissaka.

Crystal Palace have previously discussed the possibility of re-signing their former right-back, but have been deterred by Manchester United’s demands. However, the situation has now changed as United recently triggered a one-year extension option in Aaron Wan-Bissaka’s contract. This means that he was due to be out of contract in the summer but is now tied to the club until 2025.

This extension not only prevents Palace from attempting to sign Wan-Bissaka on a free transfer, but it also gives United the opportunity to use him as a bargaining chip in negotiations for Michael Olise. It is uncertain whether Wan-Bissaka would be open to returning to Selhurst Park, especially since he has regained his place in Erik ten Hag’s plans at United.

Initially, Wan-Bissaka seemed to be surplus to requirements under the Dutchman, but he has since become an integral part of the team’s defense. However, due to injury, he has only made 11 appearances in the Premier League this season. On the other hand, Olise has been in excellent form, scoring four goals and providing an assist in his last four league games after recovering from a hamstring injury. Unfortunately, he suffered another hamstring issue late in the game against Brentford and is not expected to play again until February.