Crystal Palace talent chased by trio and talks are underway to secure his services
Crystal Palace starlet Michael Olise is a man in demand as England boss Gareth Southgate attempts to convince the midfielder to pledge his allegiance to the Three Lions.
Olise’s loyalty is currently with France, whom he has represented at Under 18 level, but that is not deterring Southgate. The FA have already started talks in the hope of securing him, but the player is said to be leaning towards France.
A report in the Daily Mail has said a tug-of-war has started and at this stage France are in the box seat. Nigeria and Algeria are also in the mix but it looks to be a straight scrap between France and England.
Olise was born in London but his father is Nigerian and his mother French-Algerian., which gives him plenty of options.
The 20-year-old last played for the France Under 18s three years ago and the door has been left open for England to nip in.
Nigeria interest
Nigeria made the first move to secure Olise when they named him on the standby list for two Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers. However the Crystal Palace star did not join up with the squad and there is still a chance for England to swoop.
History shows the FA could be fighting a losing battle though. They have tried and failed to snare a number of dual nationality players in recent years.
Eagles ace Wilfried Zaha opted to play for the Ivory Coast, while former Palace star Victor Moses went for Nigeria. The FA also pursued Bayern Munich midfielder Jamal Musiala last year, but he too opted to stick with Germany.
Michael Olise being looked at by Chelsea and Arsenal
Michael Olise was a bargain for Crystal Palace but could the club sell their youngster to Premier League London rivals Chelsea or Arsenal
Now Olise has a decision to make, although he appears to be in no rush and does have time on his side. For now he remains focused on his performances for Palace as he continues to shine in the Premier league.
The Eagles snapped him up from Reading after he was named Championship Young Player of the Year last season. The £8million transfer fee now looks a snip and Palace face a battle to keep hold.
Not only are France, England and Nigeria battling for him there is huge interest at club level also. Olise came through the Chelsea Academy before joining Manchester City as 14-year-old. He then joined Reading three years later and both clubs must be kicking themselves.
Gunners target Olise swoop
Chelsea remain admirers but it is Arsenal who are leading the race and will make a move in the summer. Everton, who have the Chelsea connection with Frank Lampard are also in the hunt.
Olise has impressed in the Premier League and there is a good chance he will want to stay there. But there is interest from all around Europe and French side Lille have thrown their hat into the ring.
Eagles boss Patrick Vieira is a huge fan and will do all he can to keep hold but his former club could test his resolve.
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