Arsenal and Man City make bold moves for Barcelona star

Vishal Bhawani

Arsenal and Man City make bold moves for Barcelona star image

The January transfer window could produce a shocking twist as Arsenal and Manchester City reportedly make moves to sign Barcelona's Dani Olmo.

The Spanish playmaker, who joined Barcelona from RB Leipzig after starring in Spain's march to Euro 2024 glory, finds himself at the center of a transfer saga that has drawn the attention of two Premier League powerhouses.

MORE: All the latest soccer news | Barcelona news

Olmo's registration dilemma

Olmo has impressed at Barcelona, scoring six goals and providing one assist in 14 matches since his €60 million transfer, despite injuries restricting his time on the field.

However, his future at the club is under threat due to issues related to his La Liga registration that have become familiar for the financially embattled Catalan club. Barcelona were only able to register Olmo temporarily at the start of the campaign, using an injury exception for Andreas Christensen.

This arrangement expires on December 31, and if Barcelona fails to find a solution, Olmo could become a free agent.

This unusual situation has created an opening for clubs like Arsenal and Manchester City, who are reportedly prepared to act swiftly.

According to Catalan publication El Nacional, both teams have submitted what sources describe as "very attractive financial offers" for Olmo. Bayern Munich are also monitoring the situation but has not yet made a formal move are believed to be behind the English clubs in the running.

Barcelona fighting to keep Olmo

Barcelona, meanwhile, is working tirelessly to avoid losing one of their key players. The club is exploring legal avenues to extend Olmo's registration.

On Thursday, Olmo’s representatives met with Barcelona officials to discuss possible solutions. A court hearing is scheduled for Monday, with a final decision expected by December 27.

For Arsenal and Man City, the chance to sign a player of Olmo’s caliber, potentially on a free transfer, would be a major coup. However, Barcelona’s determination to resolve the issue means this saga is far from over.

Vishal Bhawani

Vishal Bhawani Photo

Vishal Bhawani is a content producer for The Sporting News.