Mikel Arteta looks to bring Michael Olise to the Emirates during the summer transfer window

ARSENAL manager Mikel Arteta is considering launching a summer transfer bid for Crystal Palace's Nigeria-eligible playmaker Michael Olise as he looks to beef up his squad ahead of a busy forthcoming season that will involve Champions League football.

With just eight games to go, Arsenal are sitting at the top of the English Premier League table and are certain to qualify for the Champions League come what may. This means that the team, will need reinforcing ahead of next season and Mr Arteta sees Olise as a player who is a perfect fit for Arsenal in terms of age, likely cost, and resale potential.

Olise, 21, has emerged as one of the most promising youngsters in the Premier League, with eight assists and two goals in 29 league appearances this season. As he rebuilds his squad, Mr Arteta has emphasised the importance of signing Premier League-proven players, and Olise’s track record with Palace could make him a solid option.

Back in 2021, Olise was invited to the Super Eagles camp but since then a tug-of-war has ensued for his services, with France, Algeria and England all interested in him. Olise can play both as both a playmaker and as a wade forward in a classic 4-3-3 formation.

Crystal Palace will be looking for at least £40m for Olise, who still has three years left on his contract but if Arsenal presents the right offer and if there is pressure from the player to leave, the Eagles could be persuaded to sell. Olise is also reportedly an Arsenal fan, which could work in the Gunners’ favour in negotiations.

However, if Palace is relegated this season, their asking price for Olise could be reduced to around £35m, although the club recently appointed Roy Hodgson as caretaker manager and with a two-game winning streak, it seems unlikely that they will be go down. However, if Arsenal decides to pursue Olise, it could make for an interesting transfer saga this summer.