Man Utd should definitely target Michael Olise, says Silvestre

With the January transfer window coming to an end and clubs still working on deals, we talked to former Manchester United and Arsenal defender, Mikael Silvestre.

The four-time Premier League winner gave his views on some of the players both of his former sides are reportedly trying to recruit. Even though the likes of Michael Olise and Victor Osimhen are unlikely to move in this window, Silvestre admits they would be good signings for both of his former sides.

In this article:

• Michael Olise should be on Man Utd’s list
• Callum Wilson can only work as a backup at Man Utd
• Osimhen is different compared to Jesus but would be a good signing for Arsenal
• ESR has to decide if he wants to be a bench player at Arsenal
• Safer gambling

Manchester United should definitely target Michael Olise

After the INEOS acquisition, a name that has emerged as a priority target for the Red Devils is Crystal Palace star Michael Olise.

Silvestre is a big fan of his compatriot and says that if Olise joins a Champions League level club like Man Utd, that would allow him to be a regular for the French national side. Despite that, Silvestre is unsure if Olise would want to join Man Utd.

“He (Michael Olise) has the potential to play for United. He’s been improving a lot since his days at Reading.”

“He plays for the France u21’s and I think he will progress into the national team as soon as he jumps to a Champions League club.

“He should be on the United target list but I’m not sure he’s targeting a move to United.”

While United have some quality wingers at their disposal, Silvestre believes that Olise brings in a lot of quality and directness. At the same time, he also explains that the Frenchman has to improve on his end product.

“He would bring quality, speed and he’s a good all round player who’s direct. He likes to take on players.”

“He needs to work on his end product whether that’s the service or scoring goals.”

Callum Wilson can only work as a backup at Manchester United

Erik ten Hag’s men have not been the best when it comes to scoring goals and it’s no surprise that they’re linked to a host of forwards, with Newcastle man Callum Wilson being the latest one.

Silvestre isn’t very enthusiastic about that link as he doesn’t see Wilson being a starter for Man Utd. He also points out that the Englishman’s injury history could be a drawback too.

“Callum Wilson could be good for United as a back up but I wouldn’t expect him to improve the number nine position.”

“He’s good for Newcastle but he isn’t the number one striker and has been injured a lot so I don’t think he should be a target.”

Victor Osimhen isn’t necessarily an upgrade over Gabriel Jesus

Arsenal have also struggled to score from open play this season and one of the marquee names that they’re linked to is Victor Osimhen. While Gabriel Jesus is a key part of this Arsenal side, his numbers in front of goal haven’t been the best and fans are clamouring for a proven goalscorer.

Silvestre, however, doesn’t believe that Osimhen will be an upgrade over Jesus as he elucidates why they both have different styles.

“You always want your No. 9 to score as many goals as possible but he’s (Gabriel Jesus) contributing to Arsenal’s attack in different ways. His movement, dragging defenders out of position and he’s making a lot of runs behind, stretching the block.”

“He’s a key player for Arsenal’s success.”

“Osimhen, also a top player. Maybe a little bit more pragmatic in front of goal than Gabriel Jesus.”

“I don’t think he’d necessarily be an upgrade. He’s a different type of player. Osimhen doesn’t drift as wide as Jesus.”

It’s up to Emile Smith-Rowe if he wants to warm the bench at Arsenal

Emile Smith-Rowe was one of Mikel Arteta’s most reliable contributors in the 2021-22 season but his star has faded in the last couple of seasons.

Injury issues and fierce competition for midfield spots has reduced his playing time and there are always questions about his long-term future at the Emirates.

Silvestre believes that it is up to Smith-Rowe to take that call as he can be a bench player for his favourite club but that will get tiring at some point.

“It’s up to him. He came through the academy. Everybody wants to play and wants to be a starter and unfortunately, that’s not possible. The competition for midfield spots at Arsenal is tough.”

“It’s really up to him if he wants to stick around and contribute as a bench player at his favourite club. It’s not a bad thing but he might get tired of sitting on the bench. But yeah, it’s really up to him.”

SAFER GAMBLING

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