Dani Olmo nears FC Barcelona move amid intense negotiations

By SABC Sport
6th August 2024

FC Barcelona have edged closer to securing the signing of Dani Olmo after the midfielder and his agents reportedly arrived in Leipzig on August 5 to negotiate his transfer from Germany to Spain.

The 26-year-old has hoped to join Barcelona for the 2024/25 La Liga season, marking a significant move for both player and club.

Barcelona's board, including Deco and President Joan Laporta, has remained determined to acquire Olmo, having already submitted two offers to RB Leipzig. While the first offer was deemed insufficient, it garnered a response due to the efforts of Olmo's agents, Juanma Lopez and Andy Bara.

The second proposal, though not fully convincing, demonstrated Barcelona's serious intent, acknowledged by both Leipzig and Olmo himself.

The discussions between the two clubs has been positive, yet nothing is finalized. Olmo has sought assurance regarding his registration in La Liga, a concern Barcelona have addressed by outlining their plans to comply with Financial Fair Play regulations.

The club have emphasized that Olmo's registration was a top priority and that they have made all necessary preparations to avoid any issues.

Despite the complexities in the negotiations, both Deco and Laporta have remained optimistic, believing the differences with Leipzig can be resolved. The primary hurdle lies in agreeing on the payment structure and deadlines, a concern for the German club.

Leipzig, needing to sell but are unwilling to do so at any price, have recognized the necessity of sitting down to negotiate.

Reports from Jijantes FC have confirmed that Olmo and his agents were in Germany, with a crucial meeting with Leipzig's sports managers scheduled for August 6. Both parties aim to finalize the transfer before August 8, the date Olmo was expected to join Leipzig's pre-season preparations.

The optimism surrounding the deal has indicated that a resolution was imminent, as Barcelona and Leipzig work to iron out the final details. This potential move promises to strengthen Barcelona's midfield, while Olmo looks forward to a new chapter in his career with one of La Liga's top clubs.