Manchester City are making a serious play for Dani Olmo, the standout star from RB Leipzig and the Spain national team.
The Premier League champions are keen to add the Euro 2024 winner to their squad, intensifying their transfer activity as they aim to strengthen their attacking options.
Barcelona, meanwhile, have been working hard to negotiate a deal for Olmo ever since his impressive performance in Euro 2024.
They’ve also shown interest in his national teammate, Nico Williams.
However, despite their efforts, Barcelona has yet to finalize a deal, partly due to the challenge of arranging a suitable repayment structure.
The Catalan club might need to offload some players to come up with the £50 million required to meet Olmo’s previous release clause.
Leipzig is expected to accept a similar amount, but Barcelona’s financial constraints could complicate the process.
Manchester City’s Financial Edge
Unlike Barcelona, Manchester City isn’t constrained by financial limitations.
The club is now poised to outmaneuver their rivals in securing Olmo’s services. With the player yet to make a firm decision about his future, City’s ability to pay the transfer fee upfront gives them a significant advantage.
Pep Guardiola is keenly evaluating potential signings to enhance his squad after winning the Premier League for a fourth consecutive season.
Despite the domestic success, City fell short in the FA Cup final and were unable to retain their Champions League title.
Olmo, who excelled with eight goals across all competitions last season and shone in Euro 2024, fits the profile of the player Guardiola is looking for.
The Future for Olmo
Barcelona’s initial offer of £34 million plus an additional £16 million in bonuses was turned down by Leipzig, who aren’t under pressure to sell.
City, on the other hand, is prepared to meet the entire fee upfront, making them a more attractive option for Olmo.
With three years left on his Leipzig contract, Olmo could opt to ignore a return to his boyhood club Barcelona, where he began his career at La Masia.
Currently enjoying an extended summer break following Spain’s Euro 2024 victory, Olmo might soon be heading to America to join City if an agreement is reached before their Community Shield match against Manchester United.