22-year-old forward could be one of the first signings of Sir Jim Ratcliffe era

Manchester United are keeping an eye on Crystal Palace winger Michael Olise, who could become one of the first signings of the Sir Jim Ratcliffe era.

After finalizing the deal for a minority stake in Manchester United, the British billionaire arrived in Manchester this week to hold meetings at the club’s Old Trafford stadium and Carrington training base. As part of the deal, Ratcliffe has also been given total control of football operations at United.

However, formally, he can’t call the shots till the deal is ratified by the Premier League. In the meantime, the Director of Sport at Ineos, Sir Dave Brailsford is expected to lead an audit of the transfer structure at the club.

But this hasn’t stopped the rumor mill from making interesting claims about United’s ambitious transfer plans under the new figureheads.

Manchester United eyeing a summer move for Michael Olise

According to Standard, United are interested in making Michael Olise “one of the first signings of the Sir Jim Ratcliffe era” at Old Trafford.

The 22-year-old England-born Frenchman is not leaving Palace in January, but United have identified him as a transfer target for their end-of-the-season squad overhaul.

Read more: 3 things Sir Jim Ratcliffe should do to get Manchester United back on track

Olise, who has been directly involved in six goals in just nine Premier League appearances this season, extended his contract at the South London club in August. The new deal includes a release clause that comes into effect in the summer, as per the report.

One of the biggest issues plaguing United this season has been their toothless attacking play. The Red Devils have scored fewer league goals (22) than every team except the bottom two Burnley and Sheffield United. As such, the side could certainly do with a prolific forward like Olise in his frontline.