Real Madrid Eyes Michael Olise as Mourinho Seeks New Gareth Bale

The right wing has become a key focus for Real Madrid in the summer transfer market, with the club prioritizing French star Michael Olise to form a fearsome attacking trio alongside Vinícius Júnior and Kylian Mbappé.

Despite Real Madrid issuing a statement on June 20 denying any direct or indirect contact with the player or his representatives, Spanish reports confirm that the interest in Olise is genuine, especially after his standout performance in the 2026 World Cup, where he assisted 6 goals in 6 matches for the French national team.

Olise is expected to meet with Bayern Munich's management after his World Cup participation to finalize his future, with Real Madrid eagerly awaiting developments.

The Real Madrid management believes that signing Olise could end the ongoing debate since Gareth Bale's departure, the last player to establish himself as a regular on the right flank at Santiago Bernabéu. Since then, the team has relied on several temporary solutions, with Federico Valverde being the most notable, delivering impressive performances on occasions, but the position has yet to find a permanent owner.

Despite the good relationship between Real Madrid and Bayern Munich, negotiations appear complicated, prompting Portuguese coach José Mourinho to prepare several alternative options in case the deal falls through.

Turkish player Arda Güler is among the top candidates, having participated in 51 matches last season, scoring 6 goals and providing 12 assists, although his preferred position remains behind the main striker. Moroccan Ibrahim Díaz also stands out, having proven his ability to impact games as both a substitute and a starter, and he may take on a larger role in the upcoming season.

Mourinho also has Bernardo Silva, who joined this summer from Manchester City, although the coach may prefer to use him in a deeper role as a playmaker. Brazilian Endrick, returning after a successful loan at Lyon where he scored 8 goals and assisted another 8 in 16 matches, could surprise on the right flank due to his attacking versatility.

Rodrygo Goes remains a significant question mark after suffering an ACL tear and damage to the outer meniscus in his right knee, an injury that could delay his full return for up to a year. The coaching staff is also monitoring the development of Argentine Franco Mastantuono, who had a turbulent season affected by a groin injury.

While the Olise deal appears complicated, reports indicate that club president Florentino Pérez still considers the French winger the ideal option for the right flank and continues to work on finding a formula that could bring the player closer to Santiago Bernabéu in the coming weeks.

Between the dream of Olise and the many available alternatives, the final decision rests with Mourinho, who will determine during the pre-season who will lead the right flank in Real Madrid's new project.