Why Leeds United should make an attempt to land Michael Olise
According to Football Insider (h/t Daily Express), Leeds United are interested in signing Reading attacking midfielder Michael Olise.
Having joined Reading’s academy from Chelsea back in 2015, 18-year-old Olise has had a breakthrough campaign this season with the Championship outfit.
The teenage midfielder’s quick rise through the ranks at Reading is a testament to his talent and potential. Olise has made 24 appearances for Reading this season and has been a regular feature in the side since February this year.
He has also scored two goals in the process, giving a fair idea of his attacking abilities. However, what makes him special is his ability to function anywhere in the midfield.
Primarily an attacking midfielder, Olise has featured in a variety of positions this year for Reading, including the right and left flanks. The teenage midfielder’s quick rise through the ranks at Reading is a testament to his talent and it has not gone unnoticed.
Newly-promoted Premier League side Leeds United, impressed by his displays this year, have now expressed an interest in him. The report claims that Leeds’s director of football, Victor Orta, has been tracking Olise for several months.
Olise can offer Leeds more options in the midfield
Meanwhile, Leeds, under manager Marcelo Bielsa have enjoyed a successful campaign this season that saw them emerge Championship winners. The win has secured them promotion to the top-flight after a long 16 years in the lower divisions.
One of the key contributors to Leeds’ recent success has been the stellar form of their veteran playmaker Pablo Hernandez. The Spaniard racked up 9 goals and as many assists from 36 league games, proving his worth in the current line-up.
However, he turned 35 last April and is clearly nearing the end of his long career, which means Leeds are in need of young and new faces if they wish to sustain in the Premier League.
Also, apart from Hernandez, the Whites just have Tyler Roberts as a back-up. However, the 21-year-old attacking midfielder has managed just a single assist despite making 23 league appearances.
That said, Leeds’ interest in rising talent Olise ahead of next season makes complete sense. The teenage playmaker can also offer Bielsa an extra option in the midfield next season.
Moreover, his versatility in the middle could be an added benefit for any side, let alone Leeds. Hence, they should not think twice but make an approach and land the young Frenchman at Elland Road as soon as possible.
Read more
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- Leeds signing £18m-rated young star Nicolas Gonzalez would bolster an important position for Bielsa
Verdict
Apart from Hernandez, Leeds lack an established playmaker in their ranks and Olise’s arrival will only give them more strength next season. Moreover, he could prove to be an excellent future replacement for veteran Hernandez. Also, he is still in his teens and can develop his game further under the guidance of a coach like Bielsa.
