Real Madrid 'preferred' destination for Arsenal target Michael Olise

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Arsenal are among the clubs keeping tabs on Michael Olise, but a move to north London may not be at the top of his wish list if he leaves Bayern Munich.

Olise left Crystal Palace for Bayern Munich after attracting interest from several Premier League clubs, including Arsenal, and has continued to develop into one of the most sought after attackers in Europe. His technical quality, creativity and end product have made him a regular feature in discussions around this year's Ballon d'Or.

Bayern are reportedly struggling to tie the Frenchman down to a new contract, which has created some uncertainty over his long term future at the club. That situation has naturally drawn attention from elsewhere, with Arsenal said to be among those admiring him.

Real Madrid said to be favoured destination

According to Caught Offside, Olise would prefer a move to Spain rather than a return to the Premier League, with Real Madrid emerging as his favoured destination should he decide to leave Bayern.

Real Madrid reportedly made an approach for Olise last summer, but Bayern were not willing to sell and did not seriously engage with the interest. Any potential departure is likely to hinge on how contract talks progress in Munich and on the player's own ambitions going forward.

What it means for Arsenal

Arsenal have continued to invest in top level attacking talent as they look to sustain their push for major honours under Mikel Arteta, and a player of Olise's profile would represent an obvious upgrade in creativity and goal involvement for any squad.

However, if his stated preference is for a return to Spain rather than England, Arsenal's pursuit becomes considerably more difficult regardless of how the contract situation at Bayern unfolds. Competition from a club of Real Madrid's stature adds another layer of complexity to any potential deal.

For now, Olise remains a Bayern Munich player with no imminent departure confirmed. Arsenal will continue to monitor the situation, but his reported leaning towards Real Madrid suggests the Gunners may need a change of heart from the player himself before any move becomes realistic.