Reading could demand a fee of around £20 million for Michael Olise amid claims that Leeds United, Liverpool and Everton are keen on the Championship star, according to the Reading Chronicle.
Only the very best players are capable of changing an entire game with one flick of their foot.
And, while this 18-year-old Frenchman is only a few steps into his journey towards stardom, he already appears to possess that knack for match-altering contributions.
Eight minutes after coming off the bench away to Millwall last week, Olise rescued a point for Reading with a gorgeous, first-time through-ball for Lucas Joao, showcasing his vision and sublime technique in one kick of the ball.
He then grabbed another assist, while producing six key passes, as the Royals won for the first time in seven Championship matches, battering Bristol City 4-1 on Saturday.
On this form, it is no wonder the young lock-picker is attracting interest from the division above.
The Mail report that Leeds, Wolves and Arsenal are all keen, while TEAMtalk suggested that a cross-Merseyside battle could soon take place between Everton and Liverpool for the signature of arguably the Football League’s most sought-after talent.
Reading are understood to have rejected offers of £5 million out of hand, with the Chronicle believing it would take closer to £20 million to convince them to sell.
Then again, with Real Madrid, Barcelona and Borussia Dortmund all throwing their hats into the ring, who can blame the Royals for putting a huge price tag on the head of their prized asset?
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
