Transfer Talk: Man Utd circling for Eagles flyer Olise

Michael Olise has become Crystal Palace and Roy Hodgson's saviour in recent weeks.

The winger impressed in a supporting role during his first two seasons at the club, while the likes of Wilfried Zaha and Eberechi Eze earned the plaudits.

And although Olise has suffered a recurrence of a hamstring problem that sidelined him for the first three months of the campaign, Palace's No7 is proving himself to be one of the Premier League’s most exciting young talents.

Ahead of the Eagles' FA Cup clash with Everton tonight, we look at the 22-year-old's many attributes and why he is being linked with a big-money move.

Hodgson's headache

Hodgson confirmed Olise had received an injury setback during last Saturday's 3-1 win over Brentford, in which the attacker netted a brace.

Speaking ahead of this evening's clash with the Toffees at Selhurst Park, Hodgson said: "He felt his hamstring with the last sprint he made of the game. Unfortunately for us, he won't take part in this game.

"We're hoping that this one is going to be nothing like the one that put him out of the game for as near as six months.

"After his last two performances, which were so good, we were hoping he'd be stepping out and treating us again to another great exhibition of football."

Difference maker

Olise's improved output since his return to the side is the major reason he will be missed in Palace's upcoming fixtures.

He has scored four goals and provided an assist in his last four appearances, helping the Eagles move away from the relegation zone.

His double against the Bees showcased his ability to burst into the box and finish clinically in important moments.

As well as his quality in front of goal, the former Reading man ranks fourth in the Premier League for take-ons completed per 90 minutes (3.2) and third for crosses completed per 90 (2.53).

It is no surprise, then, that clubs have taken notice of the winger's impressive form.

Wanted man

Olise was the subject of reported interest from Manchester City and Chelsea last summer but penned a new four-year deal in August.

Despite the extension and injury woes, speculation is expected to intensify ahead of this summer's transfer window.

Palace will hope they can ward off any bids but Manchester United are circling.

British billionaire Jim Ratcliffe is plotting a busy period of transfer activity after securing his 25% stake in the Red Devils with Olise thought to be a prime target.

Old Trafford chiefs are likely to push unwanted winger Jadon Sancho out of the door with fellow forward Anthony Martial surplus to requirements.

But Hodgson hopes his prized asset will opt to stay in South London, saying last year: "We really believe this is a good place for him and that we can provide him with a very good platform to go forward in his career."

Selhurst sensation

If Palace can persuade Olise to stay, it will give them a huge boost heading into next season.

The London-born trickster has undoubtedly been the class act in a team that has occasionally looked in danger of drifting into a relegation scrap this term.

Now Hodgson must find a way to continue to pick up points without the Selhurst Park favourite.