Liverpool abandon their pursuit of Summerville as a new primary target surfaces.
Liverpool has ceased their pursuit of Leeds United winger Crysencio Summerville and will now focus on securing the signature of Crystal Palace’s Michael Olise, as per a recent report. Summerville, aged 22, had previously been identified as one of Liverpool’s primary transfer targets for the summer. He had an impressive season, scoring 19 goals for Leeds in the Championship and earning the EFL Player of the Year award.
The Dutchman guided his team to the Championship playoff final, where they were defeated by Southampton, resulting in Leeds facing another season in the second tier. This poses financial challenges for them, as they need to generate sales this summer to comply with profit and sustainability rules (PSR). Summerville has long been viewed as a dispensable asset, and various sources suggest that Leeds could fetch around £35 million for him. Considering he was acquired for just £1.2 million from Feyenoord in 2020, this represents a significant profit for Daniel Farke’s side. With Summerville under contract at Elland Road until 2026, it seems inevitable that they will need to cash in on him soon.
However, Leeds Live reports that there is now a higher likelihood of Summerville joining Chelsea, especially with Enzo Maresca recently appointed as head coach. Chelsea’s interest doesn’t come as a surprise, as conversations within Stamford Bridge, as well as Anfield, have reportedly revolved around the former Dutch under-21 international. The publication suggests that Liverpool has moved on from pursuing Summerville to focus on making a bid for Crystal Palace’s star player.
Olise, the 22-year-old French Olympian, is contracted to Selhurst Park until 2027 and showcased his talent by scoring 10 goals in 19 Premier League appearances last season. He is anticipated to be the subject of a bidding war this summer, with Manchester United and Arsenal also reportedly expressing interest.