Chelsea open negotiations to sign Eagles star after rejecting Osimhen

Premier League giants Chelsea have reportedly started negotiating a deal to bring Crystal Palace star Michael Olise to Stamford Bridge as the first signing of the Enzo Maresca era.

The Eagles star is seen as a key addition as the Blues aim to bolster their attacking options despite cooling their interest in Nigeria’s Victor Osimhen.

After yet another impressive season with Crystal Palace, Olise has attracted interest from a number of top clubs, including Chelse and reigning Premier League champions Manchester City.

The teams were also interested in Olise last summer, but the France youth international put pen to paper on a new deal with the Eagles, which will expire in 2027.

Despite his lengthy contract, Chelsea will try to tempt the Crystal Palace forward into a move in the summer transfer window.

According to reports from Footmercato, Chelsea have started negotiating with Olise’s representatives in hopes of convincing the Nigeria-eligible star to agree to a contract before they approach Crystal Palace over a fee for their prized possession.

Olise has been with Crystal Palace since 2021 and is 10 games away from making 100 appearances for the Eagles in all competitions.

The 22-year-old star is seen as a key player for Crystal Palace, and would likely command a hefty fee from Chelsea or any other suitors.