PATRICK VIEIRA is set to make Reading whizkid Michael Olise his first signing as Crystal Palace boss.
The Eagles are understood to have activated an £8million release clause to sign the midfielder.
The 19-year-old has made 67 Championship appearances for Reading since making his debut against Leeds in March 2019.
Olise played 44 of those games last term after becoming a regular under manager Veljko Paunovic, scoring seven goals.
His efforts saw him named EFL Young Player of the Year, with Gareth Bale, Fabian Delph, Wilfried Zaha and Dele Alli among previous winners of the prestigious award.
The English-born youngster represents France at international level, appearing twice for their U18 side.
Olise was part of Manchester City’s academy before joining Reading in 2016 and has also been on Chelsea’s books.
Palace were linked with the player in January and are believed to have been leading the chase for his signature for many months.
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Paunovic publicly praised Olise following his team’s 2-0 victory against Nottingham Forest last December.
The Reading boss said: “Yes, he’s very talented.
“In Michael we have seen a lot of progress this year. He is getting more minutes and competition and surrounded by a very good team – a group of leaders.
“Experienced guys and younger ones are supporting him, providing him with a structure and the way we play enables him to shine in games like today.
“But we also know with young players it’s about getting the consistency and maturity to compete on the same level in every single game.
“That’s something that will come over time and we’ll enjoy his talent when he is at his best delivering for the team.”
Arsenal legend Vieira was recently announced as Palace’s new manager, succeeding ex-England boss Roy Hodgson at Selhurst Park.
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