Latest Liverpool transfer news as claims over Michael Olise's release clause have been discussed after links with a move to Merseyside
Michael Olise.
Liverpool have been tentatively linked with Bayern Munich star Michael Olise.
(Image: Photo by GSI/Icon Sport via Getty Images)
Bayern Munich sporting director Christoph Freund gave little away on a release clause within Michael Olise's contract amid Liverpool links. The former Crystal Palace winger has emerged as a possible target for the Reds after speculation over interest in the France international.
Arne Slot has enjoyed a busy summer but, arguably, the Dutchman's most important business came when Liverpool extended Mohamed Salah's contract. The Egyptian signed a two-year deal on Merseyside after another record-breaking season at Anfield, where he landed another Premier League crown as well as a host of individual accolades.
A claim on social media gathered momentum in recent weeks following a report from an account on X, formerly Twitter, which suggested that the Reds viewed Olise as a possible long-term successor to the 33-year-old.
The account, Bayern Space, suggested that Bayern's sporting director Max Eberl requested the approval of the club's board to sanction Olise's new deal which would wipe off his release clause.
However, the proposal was reportedly rejected by the Bavarian chiefs due to a reluctance to increase the 23-year-old's salary at the Allianz Arena.
In a tweet, the user adds that Liverpool view him as an ideal replacement for Salah, while Manchester City and Chelsea also pose competition.
Speaking on Tuesday, Freund refused to be drawn on the talk of a release clause in Olise's current deal, which would allow clubs to enter negotiations with the forward should it be triggered.
"As a matter of principle, we never talk about the contents of the contract," the Austrian said.
"If I were to say something along those lines, then we would talk about it.
"Our aim is that Michael will stay at FC Bayern for a long time. He's an exceptional talent."
Whether Liverpool are interested, or if they can test the Bundesliga club's resolve by tempting the release clause, remains to be seen.
However, he earned comparisons to Manchester City legend Kevin De Bruyne after head coach Vincent Kompany drew similarities between the Belgian and the France winger.
“Michael's numbers aren't my priority," he said. But I do expect him to get better and make strides.
"I've also seen the development of such talents as a player, perhaps comparable to Kevin De Bruyne.
“What's important is what they do every day in training. I see total calm in him. Now he's won something, but that's in the past.”