(Credit: Imago)
(Credit: Imago)

Michael Olise: Liverpool pursue 'dream' signing after Champions League heroics

Pete O'Rourke, Transfer Correspondent

Transfer Correspondent AUTHORITY Former Sky Sports and ESPN FC correspondent who specialises in global recruitment, contract negotiations, and high-velocity transfer breaking news. FOCUS Exclusive reporting, domestic and international transfer markets, and elite-level insights. THE INSIGHT Pete utilises a Global Network of Industry Sources to deliver verified, first-to-market reporting. His “Deep-Lens” analysis connects the dots between boardroom strategy and pitch-level recruitment, providing a level of transfer clarity that goes beyond surface-level rumours.

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Michael Olise remains the dream signing for Liverpool in their efforts to replace Mohamed Salah although any deal is highly unlikely, sources have told Football Insider.

This comes after the 24-year-old's performance against Real Madrid in the Champions League which has made headlines for days following Bayern Munich's 2-1 win.

The likes of Thierry Henry and Liverpool hero Jamie Carragher waxed lyrical about his display, and the Reds remain extremely keen to explore a move.

However, as I revealed on the latest edition of Football Insider's Transfer Insider podcast, Bayern Munich have no intention of losing Olise and will rebuff any advances.

Liverpool's transfer plans will be dealt a blow by Bayern's stance, which could force them to look elsewhere in search of a replacement for Salah.

Bayern Munich's stance on Michael Olise exit revealed

Football Insider previously revealed that Bayern Munich are relaxed about Olise's future and believe he will remain at the club for the foreseeable future.

The France international has been outstanding since his move from Crystal Palace, quickly becoming one of the world’s best and most eye-catching players.

2025-26 StatsMohamed SalahMichael Olise
Appearances3541
Starts3035
Minutes Played27623252
Goals1016
Assists929
Michael Olise vs Mohamed Salah 2025-26 stats. (via Transfermarkt)

Having established himself as a key part of Vincent Kompany’s plans for the future, Liverpool will be blocked in their pursuit, with no chance of a deal.

Speaking on the Transfer Insider podcast, I explained: "Obviously, he would be the dream signing to replace Mohamed Salah when he leaves at the end of the season.

"He's somebody they are still keen on because of the quality he has at his disposal.

"But it's near impossible that Liverpool could lure Michael Olise away from Bayern Munich. He's under contract until 2029 and playing some outstanding football.

"It was a world-class performance against Real Madrid in midweek.

"For Liverpool, it's a bit of a pipe dream for them to sign Michael Olise due to Bayern's unwillingness to sell him."

Who else is on Liverpool's list to replace Mohamed Salah?

Olise is seen as the dream replacement for Salah, but with Liverpool increasingly likely to miss out, they have switched their focus towards other targets.

Former Man United chief scout Mick Brown told Football Insider in February that Anthony Gordon is a target for Liverpool as they aim to strengthen out wide.

Anthony Gordon in action for Newcastle
Anthony Gordon is a target for Liverpool. (Credit: Imago)

Liverpool have been long-term admirers of the winger and could finally make a move to bring him to Anfield after keeping a close eye on his progress.

There is also a feeling that Gordon could be allowed to leave St James' Park after what has been a frustrating season which can see them miss out on European qualification.

As preparations for Salah's departure continue, a number of star names both in the Premier League and abroad are being assessed by the Anfield recruitment team.

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