Premier League champions Liverpool have identified Bayern Munich's attacking sensation Michael Olise as their ideal, or 'dream', future transfer target, according to fresh reports emerging from Germany.
The 'Dream' Target Shining in Bavaria
The pursuit, however, faces significant hurdles, making a deal in the imminent January transfer window highly improbable. The 23-year-old France international, who was born in England, has been in electrifying form for Vincent Kompany's Bayern Munich this season.
Olise has racked up an impressive six goals and seven assists in just 11 Bundesliga appearances. His stellar performances have continued on the European stage, where he has contributed three assists and a goal across four Champions League matches.
Since his €60 million move from Crystal Palace in July 2024, Olise has elevated his game, being crowned Bundesliga Rookie of the Season and helping Bayern clinch the German title last term. His versatility, allowing him to be deployed as a winger or attacking midfielder, adds to his considerable appeal.
Why a Liverpool Move for Olise is Complicated
Despite Liverpool's strong admiration for the player, a transfer is currently seen as a distant prospect. Football transfers expert Florian Plettenberg revealed on X that while Liverpool are very fond of Olise, several major obstacles stand in the way.
Key among these is the fact that Olise's contract with Bayern Munich runs until 2029 and contains no release clause. Furthermore, it is understood that the German giants are not open to transfer talks, and the player himself is not inclined to leave the Allianz Arena at this time.
Some outlets have reported that Bayern have placed a staggering £100 million price tag on their star asset to ward off interest from other top European clubs.
Liverpool's Pragmatic January Alternative
With a move for Olise off the table for now, Liverpool's focus has shifted to a more immediately attainable target: AFC Bournemouth winger Antoine Semenyo.
The Reds are currently more concentrated on recruiting the Ghanaian international for a number of pragmatic reasons. Unlike Olise, Semenyo is known to have a release clause in his contract with Bournemouth, making a negotiation far more straightforward.
Former England striker Darren Bent has backed Liverpool to win the race for Semenyo's signature, despite competition from Manchester United and Tottenham. Bent told talkSPORT, 'I think he would go to Liverpool. He can play on both sides.'
He elaborated on the strategic thinking, noting, 'For so long now, Liverpool have been able to depend on Salah on that right-hand side... season upon season. But the signs are that he potentially maybe is slowing down a fraction. Now, all of a sudden, you have to start addressing both sides.'
While Michael Olise remains the long-term dream for the Anfield hierarchy, the immediate future points towards a more practical approach in the upcoming transfer window.
