Aston Villa have reportedly joined Liverpool and other clubs in the race for Reading youngster Michael Olise.
According to The Mirror, Villa manager Dean Smith is keen on securing the services of the 19-year-old, who can operate as an attacking midfielder or as a winger.
Villa’s reported interest in the Reading star means that Liverpool are now facing more competition for the France Under-18 international.
In October, TEAMtalk reported that Liverpool, Chelsea, Manchester City, Borussia Dortmund, RB Leipzig, Monaco and Napoli all are tracking Olise, described as “a real talent” and “fearless” by his Reading teammate Sam Baldock in The Reading Chronicle in January 2020.
Should Liverpool fear Aston Villa competition?
Liverpool are a bigger club than Villa and also have a world-class manager in Jurgen Klopp.
Of course, working with Klopp would be hugely appealing, and there is also the small matter of winning major trophies with the Merseyside club.
Liverpool also have a very good and strong academy. However, Olise could struggle to break into the first team at the Reds and may not get enough playing time.
True, Villa have a strong attacking unit as well. The likes of John McGinn, Jack Grealish and Ross Barkley are doing well, but with manager Smith reportedly keen on adding youngsters to his team, Olise could get more chances at Villa Park.
According to WhoScored, Olise has made 16 starts and six substitute appearances in the Championship for Reading so far this season, scoring four goals and providing eight assists in the process.
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