Chelsea is on the verge of finalizing a £45 million agreement for Crystal Palace winger Michael Olise, who has chosen the Blues over Manchester City. Despite being the Player of the Season for Palace last year, contributing 11 assists and netting two goals, the 21-year-old French U21 star is presently injured and will be out for approximately six weeks.Despite Olise's injury, various Premier League teams have expressed interest, including Manchester City, who initially pursued him. Pep Guardiola intended for Olise to fill the void left by Riyad Mahrez's departure for £30 million a month ago. However, since Olise emerged from Chelsea's academy and has a preference for staying in London, he has inclined towards Chelsea.
The Evening Standard reports that City is aware of Olise's choice. Chelsea is now making headway in terms of personal agreements with the midfielder, and these negotiations are unlikely to pose issues. On the other hand, reaching an agreement with Palace over the transfer fee could be more complex due to uncertainties surrounding Olise's contract and whether a release clause is in place.
While Palace's rejection of a bid from Chelsea hints that a release clause might no longer exist, this remains unclear. Nevertheless, Chelsea is progressing towards securing Olise's services, while simultaneously pursuing deals for Romeo Lavia and Moises Caicedo.