Bayern Plot European Pathway for 17-Year-Old Defensive Gem Virgilio Olaya
FC Bayern Munich are closing in on the signing of highly rated Ecuadorian defender Virgilio Olaya, with plans already in motion to place the 17-year-old on loan in Europe to accelerate his development before he officially joins the club.
According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Grasshopper Club Zurich are among the leading candidates to take Olaya on loan. Bayern are assessing several options across Europe to ensure the young defender gains regular playing time at a competitive level immediately after completing his move.
A verbal agreement has already been reached between Bayern, SD Aucas, and Olaya. While the deal has not yet been formally announced, preparations are well advanced. Olaya’s contract will officially begin on his 18th birthday in February 2026 and is set to run until 2030.
Regarded as a physically strong centre-back with excellent game awareness, Olaya is seen as a major long-term prospect, although Bayern believe there is still room for improvement in his build-up play. Due to registration regulations, he is currently ineligible to feature for Bayern’s second team or youth sides, forcing the club to seek alternative solutions.
Grasshoppers appear a natural fit, with Bayern already loaning Lovro Zvonarek and Jonathan Asp Jensen to the Swiss club. Other options, including clubs within the Red & Gold network linked to LAFC, are also under consideration.
Club icon Uli Hoeneß recently criticised the restrictive regulations, calling them “ridiculous.” Despite the hurdles, Bayern remain committed to a clear and carefully structured development plan for Olaya as his European journey draws closer.
