Liverpool are reportedly set to battle Leeds United in order to sign teenage midfielder Michael Olise, according to Football Insider.
The 19-year-old Reading starlet has been attracting plenty of attention for his performances in the Championship and the Reds are hoping to land the France under-18 international in January.
A host of clubs have previously been touted with an interest in the playmaker, but Football Insider claimed that the Reds and the Whites lead the race, with officials at the Majeski Stadium resigned to losing their asset in the near future.
Olise reportedly has a release clause of just £8m in his current contract, so Liverpool could be in line to land a cut-price deal for a player with exceptional potential and described as ‘fearless’ by team-mate Sam Baldock.
In his 20 Championship appearances this season, Olise has racked up incredible numbers in terms of goal contributions – netting four times and supplying seven assists. The latter is two higher than Liverpool’s leading assists provider Andrew Robertson.
Unsurprisingly, Reading have been keen to tie down their midfield sensation to a new long-term deal, but they fear the writing could already be on the wall as regards his future.
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With such productive numbers having just turned 19, Olise is certainly one for the future. Whether there is an immediate pathway into Klopp’s plans is questionable as Curtis Jones, of the same age and position, has made giant strides when called upon this season.
Jones notwithstanding, central midfield is perhaps the most well-stocked area of the squad at Anfield; and barring a major injury crisis, Liverpool often have high-quality resources at their disposal.
Should the Reds activate what is a very reasonable release clause for the young Frenchman, there could be scope for sending him back to complete the season with his current club, therefore allowing him to continue his development whilst Klopp plans to implement him as part of his squad next season.
