Paul Scholes Reveals ‘Worry’ as Man Utd Close in on Deal for Arsenal and Chelsea Target
Manchester United’s summer transfer business is once again dominating headlines, but this time it’s the club’s pursuit of a high-profile target that has drawn concern from one of its own legends. Paul Scholes, the iconic former midfielder who spent his entire career at Old Trafford, has voiced his worry as the Red Devils close in on a potential deal for a player who has also been strongly linked with Arsenal and Chelsea.
The player in question is none other than Michael Olise, Crystal Palace’s dynamic winger, whose impressive performances in the Premier League have made him one of the most sought-after young talents in English football. With United reportedly in advanced talks, and a release clause believed to be in the region of £60 million, Scholes has weighed in with an honest assessment of the move – and why it gives him pause.
The Player Profile: Michael Olise
At just 22 years old, Olise has already built a reputation as a creative force. Known for his flair, vision, and ability to glide past defenders, he contributed significantly to Crystal Palace’s attacking play over the past two seasons. In the 2023/24 Premier League campaign, despite suffering from a few injury setbacks, Olise still managed to rack up double digits in assists and goals – a testament to his growing influence.
Both Arsenal and Chelsea have been tracking Olise for months, recognizing the potential for him to become a central figure in their evolving squads. But it’s Manchester United who seem the most serious about finalizing a deal, with several outlets reporting that negotiations are already underway.
Scholes’s Concerns: Talent vs. Fit
Despite the buzz surrounding the potential signing, Paul Scholes has expressed his concern in interviews and commentary, questioning whether Olise is truly what United need at this stage of their rebuild.
“It’s not about the talent – Olise clearly has that,” Scholes explained. “My worry is whether we’re just buying names again instead of building a team with a clear identity. We’ve seen this before at United – bringing in exciting players without thinking how they fit into the system.”
Scholes’ comments reflect a broader frustration shared by many United fans. Since the departure of Sir Alex Ferguson, the club has spent heavily on marquee signings, but with mixed results. Players like Angel Di Maria, Alexis Sánchez, and Jadon Sancho arrived with much fanfare but ultimately failed to deliver consistent performances in a United shirt.
The club’s lack of stability – both on and off the pitch – has contributed to an identity crisis. While managers have come and gone, the squad has remained a blend of styles, often lacking cohesion. Scholes believes that unless United have a clear plan for integrating Olise into the tactical setup, they risk repeating past mistakes.
Tactical Implications
From a tactical standpoint, Olise would likely operate on the right wing, cutting inside on his stronger left foot – similar to how Antony is currently deployed. This raises immediate questions about squad balance and redundancy.
Antony, a £85 million signing from Ajax, has struggled to adapt to the Premier League. While Olise arguably has more end product, would his arrival signal the end for Antony’s United career? Moreover, what would it mean for young talents like Amad Diallo and Alejandro Garnacho, who are still developing and need minutes?
United manager Erik ten Hag is under pressure to deliver a more consistent and attacking brand of football, but he’ll also need to be strategic in how he integrates new arrivals. Olise’s creativity and ball progression would be an asset, but the team’s struggles often stem more from midfield control and defensive errors than a lack of attacking talent.
Scholes and the Midfield Emphasis
One of Scholes’ key arguments is that United’s problems are rooted in the engine room. Despite the presence of Casemiro and Bruno Fernandes, the midfield has lacked cohesion and control, especially in high-pressure games. Scholes believes that addressing this area should be the priority, not adding another attacking winger.
“We don’t control games,” Scholes said. “We don’t dominate midfield the way United used to. That’s the foundation for everything. Before adding another winger, I’d rather see us sign a proper central midfielder who can dictate play and give us some structure.”
His concerns are echoed by analysts and fans alike. United’s vulnerability in transitions and inability to dictate tempo has been exposed time and again by top teams. While Olise’s signing might excite fans and add flair, it might not solve the deeper structural issues plaguing the squad.
Arsenal and Chelsea Watching Closely
As United push forward with their negotiations, both Arsenal and Chelsea remain in the wings. Arsenal, in particular, see Olise as a perfect fit for Mikel Arteta’s fluid attacking system. With Bukayo Saka already established on the right, Olise could offer depth, competition, or even play in a more central role.
Chelsea, on the other hand, are in desperate need of attacking consistency. With a bloated but underperforming squad, Olise could represent a shift towards a more disciplined recruitment strategy – targeting Premier League-proven players with high ceilings.
If United do secure his signature, it would not only be a statement of intent but also a snub to their London rivals. However, it would also come with heightened expectations – something the club has historically struggled to manage post-Ferguson.
What This Means for United’s Summer
The Olise pursuit is likely only one part of a broader summer overhaul. New minority ownership under Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s INEOS group has signaled a desire to streamline football operations and focus on long-term planning. Securing a young, high-potential player like Olise fits that vision on paper – but Scholes is right to question whether it fits in practice.
The pressure on Ten Hag will be immense. If he stays, he’ll need to integrate new players while developing a consistent tactical identity. If he’s replaced, a new manager will inherit a squad full of different profiles and philosophies – making the task even more complex.
Final Thoughts
Paul Scholes’ warning is not one to be dismissed lightly. As someone who lived through United’s most dominant years, his perspective carries weight. He’s not doubting Michael Olise’s quality – rather, he’s challenging the thinking behind the move.
Are United building a team? Or are they collecting stars again in hope that individual brilliance will paper over deeper cracks?
If Manchester United do finalize a deal for Olise, fans will have every reason to be excited – but also cautious. Scholes’ worry is a timely reminder that flashy transfers aren’t the solution by themselves. For United to truly rise again, the club needs clarity, structure, and a cohesive vision.
Will Olise be a part of that vision, or another chapter in United’s turbulent post-Ferguson story? Only time will tell.
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