Marcelo Bielsa's Leeds United have been linked with a move for Reading playmaker Michael Olise.

Leeds will face strong competition for Olise

Football Insider have recently reported about Olise's situation, saying that the Whites are very keen on signing the Reading star but they are expected to face competition because a lot of top flight clubs are looking at him.

Leeds are interested, but they are also aware of other clubs' interest in the player, who has a release clause of just £8 million and that clause still applies in the upcoming summer transfer window. Apart from Leeds, there is interest from Crystal Palace, Liverpool, Tottenham and Arsenal.

The Frenchman has five Championship goals this season, picking up ten assists as well. He has played in a variety of positions across the front line, and the Royals are hoping to extend his current contract and include a larger release clause.

Reading star Sam Baldock heaped praise on Olise, saying: “Michael is a real talent, he’ll get on the ball in any situation. He’s fearless, if you ask him today I’ll guarantee that he had no nerves. He’s a lively character and one who I’ve noticed a real change in the last couple of months."

Olise would add flair to the Leeds side

In the Championship this season, Olise has grabbed an impressive average match rating of 7.08. Only two other Reading players have picked up better ratings than the Frenchman. He is currently their highest assister and has played the highest number of key passes per game for the side (as per Whoscored).

This shows that he's a creative outlet and to sign someone like him for a cheap fee could be a very good deal for Leeds. He still young and might still improve in the future, but even now could offer a new creative threat as playmaker Pablo Hernandez approaches the end of his career.

In other news, a Leeds defender has been tipped to leave the club - read more here.