Manchester United have secret weapon in bid to seal Michael Olise transfer

Manchester United will need to utilise all assets to maximise pulling power this summer after a record low Premier League finish.

Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s call on Erik ten Hag’s job will play a huge role in the transfer market, not least in regards to Jadon Sancho. The Champions League finalist is still at odds with the United coach having fallen out over comments on training levels.

Borussia Dortmund are said to be interested in a permanent switch for the 24-year-old following an encouraging loan spell, while a return to United seems off the cards if Ten Hag remains at the helm.

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The likes of Antony and Marcus Rashford both disappointed this season, leading to suggestions that United could look at bringing in a new attacker. Michael Olise has been one player frequently linked to Old Trafford.

Despite suffering two hamstring setbacks, the Frenchman had been in fine form when on the pitch by registering 10 goals and six assists in 19 games. Olise has been selected to represent his country at the Olympics as a result.

Palace are expected to hold out for a sizeable fee for their asset amid heightened interest. United cannot offer Olise Champions League football next season so Ratcliffe might have to draw on a secret weapon.

The Ineos chief has often been snapped sitting with or near Sir Alex Ferguson at Old Trafford as the rebuilding job continues. Sir Alex is also a close ally of Crystal Palace sporting director Dougie Freedman, having been his neighbour at one point.

The two Glaswegians were photographed leaving a restaurant over the weekend, their friendship still clearly strong. Ratcliffe may wish to utilise this link if United do indeed sanction a pursuit of Olise.

Freedman at one stage had been connected with the sporting director role at United until it was decided that Newcastle chief Dan Ashworth - still on gardening leave - was to be targeted.

The former Palace and Leeds striker has been credited for scouting Olise, Eberechi Eze and Marc Guehi at Selhurst Park, with all three now linked with big money moves to ‘big six’ clubs. While he will not be plying his trade at Old Trafford any time soon, he can still play a role in United’s transfer activity.

He will almost certainly play hard ball over any approach but perhaps his friendship with Sir Alex will soften his stance, if indeed Ratcliffe opts to take this route. It’s far from a sure-fire way of securing a transfer but it certainly gives United the advantage they need in the race for Olise.