Leeds United have been handed a major boost in their chase for Michael Olise, after Reading manager Velko Paunovic admitted the midfielder could leave the club in the January transfer window.

What's the story?

Reports in recent weeks have suggested that the likes of Marcelo Bielsa's side and fellow Premier League outfit Crystal Palace are eyeing up a move for the 19-year-old starlet, and when speaking about him having a £8m release clause in his contract, the Reading boss opened up on his player's future.

Speaking to The Reading Chronicle, Paunovic said: "I’m not aware of it. The most important thing for Michael is that he has found a place where he is being protected, supported, playing games more than ever and is being given opportunities.  I am confident. But, I’m also confident to tell you that you never know.

"Every single player is exposed to the market and to the teams that have needs so somebody may pull the trigger. Are we going to be affected by that? It is possible, but I am confident and I am working with him long-term."

Orta must pounce

With a supposed £8m release clause, and now his own manager admitting that he could be on the move in the January window, it's surely the perfect time for Victor Orta to pounce.

Olise has been a revelation for the Royals this season especially, playing in a variety of positions all across midfield, and adding a real end product to his game too.

In just 20 games in the Championship, he's bagged four goals and provided an impressive seven assists, and it's no surprise that he's already receiving plenty of rave reviews for his performances.

Described as being "super talented" by his manager, teammate Sam Baldock added: "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.

“He’s knuckled down and realised that he’ll have to win the respect of his teammates by working hard. We saw both sides of his game today."

If Leeds are looking for an absolute bargain to come in and add a different dimension to Bielsa's side for the second-half of the season, then Olise can be that man.