Olise Demands Bayern Exit for Real Madrid
Michael Olise has reportedly informed Bayern Munich of his desire to leave the club this summer, with a preference to join Real Madrid, according to French outlet Foot Mercato. The 24-year-old winger has been a standout performer at the World Cup, extending his impressive club form from Bayern onto the international stage. Liverpool have long been linked with Olise as a potential replacement for Mohamed Salah, but the emergence of Real Madrid as a preferred destination and Bayern's hefty valuation present major obstacles.
Foot Mercato reports that Bayern will demand at least €200 million (£170 million) to even consider selling the former Crystal Palace star. The German champions are already scouting replacements, with Liverpool-linked Bradley Barcola among the names under consideration. Olise's decision to target a move to the Santiago Bernabéu effectively sidelines Liverpool in this particular pursuit, forcing the Reds to accelerate alternative plans.
Liverpool Explore Alternatives as Barcola and Diomande Deals Falter
Liverpool have made contact over a potential transfer for Bournemouth winger Rayan, according to TEAMtalk. The Brazilian is being lined up as a contingency option should the club fail to secure primary targets Yan Diomande and Bradley Barcola. Diomande, a key target from RB Leipzig, has made clear his preference to join Paris Saint-Germain. If that move materializes, it could allow Barcola to leave PSG for Liverpool.
However, L'Equipe reports that PSG have slapped a £128 million price tag on Barcola and have recently decided against letting the winger leave, even if Diomande arrives this summer. This has prompted Liverpool to explore other options. Bournemouth's Rayan is one of several alternatives, alongside Brighton's Yankuba Minteh, Cologne's Said El Mala, Lille's Matias Fernandez-Pardo, and Everton's Iliman Ndiaye.
Liverpool's Search for Salah Replacement Intensifies
Mohamed Salah announced at the end of the 2025/26 season that he would leave Liverpool after nine years at Anfield, creating a significant void in the squad. The Reds have been linked with multiple wide players as they prepare for the 2026/27 campaign. The transfer window is accelerating for Liverpool and their Premier League rivals, with the World Cup acting as a catalyst for potential domino-effect moves.
Liverpool's contingency list reflects a broad scouting network, targeting young, dynamic wingers who can provide immediate impact. The club's hierarchy, led by sporting director Jörg Schmadtke, is working to secure a deal before the season begins, but the high asking prices and competition from European giants complicate matters.
