Arsenal will have an advantage over their rivals in the race to sign Crystal Palace winger Michael Olise, according to The Mirror.
Chelsea, Manchester United, Newcastle and Liverpool are also pursuing the France Under 21 international’s services.
However, it is believed that Olise is keen on playing in the Champions League next season, which means that the Gunners are “set to have the edge” in negotiations.
It remains to be seen, though, whether that will ultimately lead to Mikel Arteta’s side winning the battle for the 22-year-old.
Olise has a release clause
One of the reasons that so many clubs are contemplating a move for the Frenchman this summer is the existence of a buyout fee in his contract.
When Olise signed a new deal last year, it included a clause that would allow him to leave Palace if a club bids £60m. The Mirror say that an approach from Chelsea is almost certain, so it will be up to Arsenal and other interested parties if they want to respond with their own offers.
Arsenal have other transfer priorities
Olise is ostensibly a right-winger, and the Gunners already have a player in that position, Bukayo Saka, who will want to play the majority of games.
It should be pointed out that the England international is rarely absent due to injury either, so you would question the London club’s transfer plans if they do splash out so much on Olise.
Other areas need to be strengthened first. A striker is the top priority, with scouts having been sent to watch the likes of RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko and Sporting Lisbon’s Viktor Gyokeres.
A new midfielder is also thought to be high on the agenda, along with a replacement for Aaron Ramsdale, who is set to leave the Emirates.
