Bayern Munich sporting director Christoph Freund has told Liverpool to forget about signing Michael Olise, insisting the winger "will play an important role" for the German club next season.
Freund dismisses exit talk
Olise, 24, has been strongly linked with a move to Liverpool amid their search for a wide forward to replace Mohamed Salah. Real Madrid are also interested in the Frenchman, who provided seven assists in eight games at the World Cup and racked up 48 goals and assists in 52 matches as Bayern won the Bundesliga and DfB Pokal.
Asked specifically about Real's interest and claims that Olise is desperate to join Los Blancos, Freund replied: "This is absolutely not an issue for us. We're delighted that Michael is back from his holiday. He'll play an important role for FC Bayern this season, just as he did last season, too."
Real Madrid deny bid
Last month, reports emerged that Real had submitted a £130 million bid for Olise. However, the Spanish giants issued a statement saying there had been no "direct or indirect" contact with the 24-year-old. The statement added: "Real Madrid also wishes to highlight the excellent institutional relationship it maintains with Bayern Munich -- with whom it shares a long history of mutual respect, collaboration, and admiration -- and regrets the circulation of speculation which does not reflect reality."
Alternatives identified
Given Bayern's firm stance, both Liverpool and Real have identified alternatives to Olise. One target is RB Leipzig's Yan Diomande, for whom Real are said to have bid £85 million this week. Leipzig rejected the offer and demand at least £100 million. Liverpool are also looking at Paris Saint-Germain's Bradley Barcola and Monaco's Maghnes Akliouche.
Freund spoke after a youthful Bayern side lost 2-1 against third-tier Wehen Wiesbaden in a friendly. Big-name stars such as Olise and Harry Kane are expected to feature later in pre-season.
