Man City set to battle Real Madrid in the race to sign world-class forward | OneFootball

Man City and Real Madrid Monitoring Bayern Star as Transfer Race Heats Up

Olise’s rapid rise in Germany

Manchester City and Real Madrid are closely tracking Bayern Munich winger Michael Olise, with both clubs prepared to test the Bundesliga champions’ resolve, according to TeamTalk. The 23-year-old France international has become one of Europe’s most dynamic forwards since leaving Crystal Palace in 2024.

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Olise scored 20 goals and provided 23 assists in 55 appearances for Bayern last season, contributing heavily to another Bundesliga title. His sharp dribbling, ability to unlock defences and growing reputation on the European stage have made him a standout performer. This campaign he has already notched five goals and six assists in just nine matches, with his Champions League display against Pafos prompting a German source to suggest he could be a contender for the 2026 Ballon d’Or.

One anonymous scout told TeamTalk: “He’s got that rare blend of creativity and composure that clubs are desperate for. Clubs like City and Madrid don’t chase players lightly.”

Bayern’s stance and contract situation

Olise remains tied to Bayern until 2029, and there is no public indication of a release clause. That effectively means any potential buyer would need to table a huge offer before Bayern would even contemplate talks.

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Sources suggest he currently earns around €150,000 per week, roughly £130,000, which is far below the highest earners in world football. Bayern’s wage structure has always been carefully managed, but Olise’s form has put pressure on their hierarchy to improve his deal to avoid losing him to wealthier rivals.

A move to Spain is said to be particularly appealing for Olise, with Real Madrid continuing to build a new generation of Galacticos alongside Vinicius Junior and Jude Bellingham. Returning to England is also not being ruled out, especially if Pep Guardiola and City make a concrete approach.

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Interest from Europe’s giants

Manchester City see Olise as an option who could elevate their forward line further, giving Guardiola more flexibility in wide areas. Madrid, meanwhile, are intent on adding another marquee attacker to ensure long-term dominance in La Liga and Europe.

With Bayern juggling the balance between their wage cap and keeping their brightest star, the coming months could prove decisive. The Bavarians are reluctant sellers, but in football’s current market, even long contracts and titles are no guarantee of permanence.

Future outlook

Olise’s seamless integration into Bayern, working in tandem with Harry Kane and Jamal Musiala, has made him indispensable to Vincent Kompany’s side. For Bayern fans, the speculation is uncomfortable, yet it underlines just how quickly he has become central to Europe’s transfer narrative.

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As the January window approaches, the main question is whether Bayern can secure their winger with an upgraded deal or whether City and Madrid will move to prise him away.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

Olise is exactly the type of player that could thrive under Pep Guardiola. His pace, creativity and end product mirror the qualities City fans have grown accustomed to with their current stars. Imagine Olise linking up with Erling Haaland and Phil Foden, offering Guardiola another weapon in games where opponents sit deep.

The daunting part is the competition. Real Madrid’s prestige cannot be underestimated, especially for a young French international looking to make a global impact. City fans know their club has the financial clout to compete with Madrid, but historically Madrid’s pull has proved irresistible for many players.

Still, there is a growing confidence among City supporters that the project at the Etihad has become one of the most attractive in Europe. The infrastructure, the coaching, and the chance to challenge for every major trophy each season are persuasive factors. Fans would also see Olise as someone who could keep City’s attacking standards at the highest level for years to come.

Ultimately, while Madrid might have the heritage, City can offer an immediate platform for sustained success. If this pursuit becomes a reality, the expectation among City fans would be simple: spend what it takes, because talents like Olise come around rarely, and this could be a defining move for the next era of Guardiola’s side.