Claude Makelele, a legendary former midfielder for Real Madrid, has publicly stated that he has encouraged club president Florentino Perez to make a significant transfer bid for Bayern Munich winger Michael Olise.
Reports recently surfaced suggesting Olise, 24, expressed his desire to join the Spanish club to his French teammates during the World Cup. Makelele confirmed he discussed the potential transfer with Perez, asserting that Olise is the player Real Madrid should prioritize if they intend to spend money on a new signing.
Makelele, who was a key figure in Real Madrid's early 2000s 'Galacticos' era, praised Olise's impact on the game. "Olise gives me back the feeling of watching football, the taste of what we were as kids: talent, freedom, quality, efficiency," Makelele said, referencing the winger's ability to create scoring opportunities. He added that Olise's presence is keenly felt when he is not on the field, likening his potential to that of Lionel Messi in his ability to produce unexpected moments of brilliance.
Olise joined Bayern Munich in 2024 for a reported £50 million and has three years remaining on his contract. A transfer to Real Madrid would likely require a substantial fee.
During the World Cup, Olise played a significant role for France, recording a tournament-high five assists. Despite France's semi-final exit, Makelele highlighted Olise's exceptional performances. He noted that Olise possesses the ability to pick out passes that other players might not see, characterizing his play as the kind of modern football that excites fans.
Olise has been a standout performer for Bayern Munich, with 16 goals and 27 assists in 39 league games last season. Earlier this year, reports linked Liverpool with a £173 million bid for the player, but Bayern was reportedly unwilling to sell. Olise's name also emerged during Real Madrid's presidential election, with speculation that a £130 million offer would be made if Florentino Perez secured another term. Perez did win the election, but no official contact between the clubs regarding Olise has been confirmed.