Real Madrid are poised to make a record-breaking £130 million transfer bid this summer, following Florentino Perez's re-election as president. The move comes amid a twist in the club's pursuit of Erling Haaland, with Perez now targeting a different marquee signing.
Presidential Election and Haaland Saga
Enrique Riquelme, who lost the presidential election, had promised to sign Erling Haaland from Manchester City. He claimed Haaland had a release clause and wanted to join Real Madrid. However, Manchester City denied these claims, stating there was no contractual clause enabling a move. Haaland's father and agent also dismissed the rumors as untrue. Perez, after winning the vote, ruled out Haaland as his target, stating he plans to make a £130 million-plus offer for a different player.
Perez's Statement on the Bid
Perez announced he would make an offer to a major Champions League club for a great player, emphasizing it would be the largest transfer fee in Real Madrid's history. He clarified the target is not Haaland, not Michael Olise, nor Jeremy Doku, but a midfielder who can go forward, not from the Premier League. He also ruled out Harry Kane.
Michael Olise Emerges as Top Target
Despite Perez's denial, reports indicate that Michael Olise of Bayern Munich is the player Madrid will bid for. However, Bayern officials have firmly rejected any potential sale. President Herbert Hainer stated, 'Michael Olise is an FC Bayern Munich player who still has a long contract - and we are not a selling club.' Honorary president Uli Hoeness added that Jose Mourinho, returning as Madrid's head coach, cannot acquire Olise, calling him 'unsellable.' Board member Karl-Heinz Rummenigge echoed this, saying no price tag would tempt Bayern.
Bayern's Stance
Bayern's leadership is united in their refusal to sell Olise, despite Madrid's anticipated offer. The German champions are adamant that the France international is not available, with Hainer suggesting Perez can 'save himself' the trouble of making a bid.
This transfer saga continues to develop as Real Madrid look to make a splash in the summer window, but Bayern's strong stance may force Perez to look elsewhere.
