Antony's potential replacement: Manchester United eye Chelsea and Liverpool target Olise

Manchester United are prepared to cut their losses on winger Antony and have identified Crystal Palace's Michael Olise as a potential replacement, according to reports from TEAMTalk.

Antony arrived at Old Trafford in a big-money move from Ajax last summer, costing a reported £86 million (including add-ons).

However, the Brazilian has struggled to adapt to the Premier League, failing to replicate the form that saw him shine under Erik ten Hag in Amsterdam.

The 24-year-old managed just four goals and two assists in 25 Premier League appearances last season and has been even less effective this term, contributing no goals and a single assist in 25 league outings.

His struggles have seen him fall out of favour with Ten Hag, with Alejandro Garnacho often preferred on the right flank.

United are looking to sell Antony for an acceptable amount in order to recoup some of their investment and free up his wages.

TEAMTalk's transfer insider Fraser Gillan claims United would be willing to accept £50 million for the winger.

This would represent a significant loss for United, who would be taking a £36 million hit on a player still considered to be in his prime years.

With Antony seemingly out of favour and Jadon Sancho's future at Old Trafford uncertain under Ten Hag, United are on the lookout for a new right-winger, with Crystal Palace's Michael Olise at the top of their shortlist.

Olise, who is eligible to represent Nigeria internationally, was subject of transfer interest from Chelsea last summer, with the Blues even triggering his £35 million release clause.

However, the 22-year-old opted to stay at Selhurst Park, signing a new contract that reportedly increased his release clause to £60 million.

Despite Chelsea and Liverpool's interest in activating Olise's release clause, reports suggest that the winger himself would prefer a move to Manchester United.

Olise is said to be a lifelong Red Devils fan, and agreeing personal terms is reportedly not expected to be an issue.

The France U21 impressed last season with 11 assists in the Premier League and has continued to contribute this term, despite an injury-plagued campaign that has seen him register nine goal involvements in 13 appearances.

If United can secure Olise's signature, they would be bringing in a talented young winger with a proven track record in the Premier League.

However, they face competition from Chelsea and Liverpool, who are also thought to be keen on the 2021 Super Eagles invitee.

Ejim Kaycee

Photo Credit: cpfc.co.uk

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