Chelsea face Michael Olise squad number issue after offering two players to Palace
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Potential Issues for Chelsea if They Sign Michael Olise
Chelsea’s pursuit of Crystal Palace winger Michael Olise could lead to complications, particularly concerning squad dynamics and shirt numbers. After a failed £35m bid last year, Chelsea are prepared to reignite their interest despite financial constraints.
Financial Constraints and Transfer Strategy
Chelsea are aware of their need to adhere to profit and sustainability regulations. Olise’s current contract, valid until 2027, includes a release clause of £60m—a sum that may stretch Chelsea’s financial capabilities. To navigate this, Chelsea are reportedly considering a player-swap deal, offering Trevoh Chalobah and Noni Madueke to Palace as part of the transfer package.
The Squad Number Dilemma
One crucial aspect of Olise’s potential transfer is the squad number he would receive at Chelsea. During his tenure at Reading and Crystal Palace, Olise has consistently worn the No.7 shirt. This number, however, is currently held by Raheem Sterling at Chelsea.
Sterling, despite struggling to find consistent form since his £47.5m move from Manchester City two years ago, remains a key player for Chelsea. Stripping him of the No.7 shirt could lead to discontent and potentially destabilize the squad. Sterling’s frustration has already been evident, marked by jeers from fans and his omission from Gareth Southgate’s England squad.
Possible Alternatives for Olise
Enzo Maresca, Chelsea’s new manager, could mitigate this issue by offering Olise a different squad number. The No.9 jersey, soon to be vacated by Romelu Lukaku, is a potential option. However, the No.9 shirt at Chelsea comes with a notorious reputation, often viewed as cursed due to a series of underwhelming performances from previous wearers like Chris Sutton, Mateja Kezman, and Fernando Torres.
Conclusion
Securing Michael Olise would undoubtedly boost Chelsea’s attacking options, but it presents challenges that Maresca and the club’s management must navigate carefully. Balancing the squad, managing player expectations, and adhering to financial regulations will be key factors in ensuring a smooth transition and maintaining team harmony.
