Bayern Munich have secured the signing of winger Michael Olise from Crystal Palace for approximately £60 million, activating his release clause.
The 22-year-old French Under-21 international signed a five-year deal with the German giants.
Olise, who joined Crystal Palace from Reading for £8 million in July 2021, made 90 appearances in all competitions over three seasons with the Eagles. Despite interest from Chelsea and Newcastle United earlier this summer, Olise moved to Germany, where he will work under Bayern’s new manager, Vincent Kompany.
“I’m very happy to now be playing for such a big club – it’s a great challenge and that’s exactly what I was looking for,” said Olise.
“I want to prove myself at this level and play my part in ensuring we win as many titles as possible in the coming years.”
Last season, Olise scored 10 goals in 19 Premier League appearances, helping Crystal Palace finish 10th. He has also been selected for the France squad for the upcoming Olympics in Paris.
“We are hugely proud of what Michael has achieved at Crystal Palace, a club where he has developed greatly as a player,” said Eagles chairman Steve Parish. “We respect his desire to further test himself at the highest level of world football.”
In addition to Olise, Bayern are close to finalizing the signing of Fulham’s Joao Palhinha for £42 million plus £4 million in add-ons. The 28-year-old Portugal midfielder was on the verge of joining Bayern last summer, but the deal fell through on deadline day.
Furthermore, Bayern have permanently signed England defender Eric Dier, who had been on loan from Tottenham Hotspur since January.
Bayern’s 11-year hold on the German title was ended by Bayer Leverkusen last season, prompting the club to reinforce their squad. Reports indicate that Bayern are also interested in Leverkusen defender Jonathan Tah and RB Leipzig forward Xavi Simons.
