Reports suggest that Manchester United aims to avoid paying Michael Olise’s full release clause by proposing a player exchange with Crystal Palace.
The Red Devils are anticipating a quiet January transfer window focused primarily on departures before Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s new recruitment team takes over in the summer.
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Palace winger Olise has already been identified as a future target, with a buyout clause in his contract becoming active at the end of the season.
Although the exact release clause amount is unknown, it surpasses the previous £35 million buyout in his previous deal before he signed fresh terms last summer.
While United is willing to pay the release clause, the Daily Star reports that they consider it a last resort and are exploring ways to reduce the cash value of the deal.
One option under consideration is a player-plus-cash swap involving former Eagles star Aaron Wan-Bissaka.
Although Palace has previously discussed re-signing Wan-Bissaka, they were deterred by United’s demands. The situation has changed with United triggering a one-year contract extension for Wan-Bissaka last month, tying him to the club until 2025.
This prevents Palace from pursuing him on a free transfer and allows United to use him as leverage in Olise negotiations.
While a significant cash sum will still be required, including Wan-Bissaka in the deal could give United an advantage over other suitors for Olise.
Whether Wan-Bissaka is open to returning to Selhurst Park remains uncertain, especially after reclaiming a role in Erik ten Hag’s plans.
Initially appearing surplus under the Dutchman, Wan-Bissaka has become integral to the back-line. Despite injuries, he would have made more than his 11 Premier League appearances this season.
Olise, on the other hand, impressed with four goals and an assist in his last four league outings but is expected to be sidelined until February due to another hamstring injury.
