Transfer News: Chelsea join the race for 19-year-old Reading rising star

Transfer News: Chelsea join the race for Michael Olise

According to transfer news from Daily Star, Chelsea have entered the race for Reading starlet Michael Olise. Chelsea have joined the likes of Leeds United, Arsenal, Lille and Bayern Munich in the pursuit of the 19-year-old who could be leaving Reading at the end of the season.

The 19-year-old spent time at the Chelsea youth academy as well as Manchester City before linking up with the Royals where he has flourished, establishing himself as one of the best young players in the EFL Championship this season.

READING, ENGLAND – JULY 07: Reading’s Michael Olise in action during the Sky Bet Championship match between Reading and Huddersfield Town at Madejski Stadium on July 7, 2020 in Reading, England. (Photo by Richard Martin-Roberts – CameraSport/Getty Images)

His versatility of playing on either wing and attacking midfield is another factor that adds to the appeal. Also, the fact that he is regularly rubbing shoulders with the senior pros at just 19 is clearly indicative of some excellent progress and highlights a level of maturity that belies his tender years.

Olise’s rise to prominence has seen him attract interest from a host of clubs. The likes of Bayern Munich, Leeds United, Lille as well as Arsenal are after him. As per the report, Chelsea have also joined the other clubs in the transfer race for Olise. The 19-year-old attacking midfielder is entering the final year of his contract with Reading. He has shown little interest in wanting to sign an extension.

Reading v Queens Park Rangers EFL Sky Bet Championship 20/03/2021. Michael Olise 7 of Reading during the EFL Sky Bet Championship match between Reading and Queens Park Rangers at the Madejski Stadium, Reading, England on 20 March 2021.

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So the Royals may very well be forced into cashing in on him at the end of the season. Chelsea let Olise slip through during his youth days. They can benefit from bringing him back to the club despite the plethora of attacking midfielders already available. However, given the competition, a deal could be difficult.