After Michael Olise breakthrough, Chelsea make decision on Noni Madueke future

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Noni Madueke’s Future Uncertain Amid Chelsea’s Pursuit of Michael Olise

Chelsea Keen on Retaining Madueke Despite Interest in Olise

Despite Chelsea’s interest in Crystal Palace winger Michael Olise, the Blues plan to keep Noni Madueke on their roster. Chelsea is among at least five clubs eyeing the highly-rated Frenchman this summer.

Potential Impact on Madueke’s Game Time

The future of Noni Madueke has come into question due to Chelsea’s strong pursuit of Olise. Both players have similar profiles as left-footed attackers who excel when cutting inside from the right wing.

Close Call Last Summer

Chelsea felt they were close to signing Olise last summer, believing they had activated his complex release clause at Palace. However, the player ultimately signed an improved contract with the south London club.

Balancing Squad Depth

Madueke, who impressed under Mauricio Pochettino in the latter half of last season, could see his playing time reduced if Olise joins Stamford Bridge. Despite this, The Athletic reports that Chelsea intends to keep the former England under-21 international. The club aims to have at least two top players for each position, and retaining Madueke aligns with this strategy. Cole Palmer, who mainly played on the right wing last season, is expected to be used more as a No. 10 by new head coach Enzo Maresca.

Madueke’s Performance and Potential

Madueke scored eight goals and provided three assists in all competitions last season. The 22-year-old, a £30 million acquisition from PSV in January 2023, had just started to settle into Pochettino’s preferred lineup before the manager’s departure. Crystal Palace, where Madueke spent three years of his academy career, is reportedly interested in bringing him back.

Olise’s Uncertain Future

Meanwhile, Olise’s future remains unclear. The former Reading star, whose representatives reportedly have agreed on personal terms with Chelsea, is happy at Palace but open to a move if an appealing opportunity arises. Manchester United, Newcastle, and Bayern Munich have all shown interest in the winger, who scored 10 goals and provided six assists despite making only 14 Premier League starts last season due to a series of hamstring injuries.

Olympic Participation as a Transfer Obstacle

A potential hurdle for clubs looking to sign Olise this summer is his participation in the Olympics. He, along with Palace teammate Jean-Philippe Mateta, is part of Thierry Henry’s France squad for the competition, which runs from July 24 to August 10.

If Olise is to leave Selhurst Park, he and Palace would prefer to finalize the deal before he departs for the Olympics, and certainly before the Premier League season starts. His release clause, believed to be around £60 million, adds complexity to the transfer negotiations.