Roy Hodgson breaks silence on Michael Olise speculation amid Manchester United links

Crystal Palace could lose star player Michael Olise in the summer.

The 22-year-old forward has established himself as one of the best wingers in the Premier League in the past two years, although this season he has had issues with hamstring injuries which have forced him to miss a lot of matches for the Eagles.

Olise recently emerged as one of the hottest names on United’s transfer radar for the upcoming summer transfer window.

According to a report from Football London, Olise would be keen on fulfilling a lifelong dream of joining United, even though he is aware of interest from Chelsea.

Erik ten Hag is said to be monitoring Olise’s progress this season and I think most fans would see the Palace star as an improvement on Antony, who is looking to kick on after his goal and assist against Newport County on Sunday. The Brazilian knows he will need to do it against better teams than League Two opposition before he can justify his mega-money transfer from Ajax in the summer of 2022.

Palace manager Roy Hodgson has discussed the speculation and has been quoted by sports broadcaster and reporter Ben Jacobs. The veteran coach hopes Olise stays at Selhurt Park.

Hodgson said: “It would be a sad day for the club [if he leaves]. I’m certain the club would like him to honour [his contract] and to help improve the team. We want to make the team stronger and not lose players to other Premier League clubs who have money on the table.”

🗣️ Roy Hodgson asked about links with Michael Olise and #MUFC for this summer: "It would be a sad day for the club [if he leaves]. I'm certain the club would like him to honour [his contract] and to help improve the team. We want to make the team stronger and not lose players to… pic.twitter.com/PTQ3b5fz0R

— Ben Jacobs (@JacobsBen) January 29, 2024

It sounds like Hodgson, who faces an uncertain future at Palace, is expecting bids to come in for Olise at the end of the season. Let us know in the comments section if you would like to see him at United.

Get the latest Manchester United news, opinion, interviews and exclusive features with the Stretty Newsletter – Ad Free! Kick off your afternoon with the Stretty News verdict on all matters Manchester United.