Barcelona believed Dani Olmo would become a cornerstone of their attack, but he’s found himself in an odd predicament. He arrived at Camp Nou from RB Leipzig for roughly $65 million in the summer, only to be granted a temporary registration that has since expired.
La Liga officials say Barcelona can’t extend his stay under the league’s financial rules, leaving him unable to compete for the second half of the season. Olmo’s agent insists, “The decision made by Dani is to stay at Barcelona as he wants to play for Barça.” Yet the player may have no choice but to seek opportunities elsewhere.
Why a Move to Arsenal Might Happen
There’s a clause in Olmo’s contract that could let him leave for nothing if he isn’t registered in January. That quirk, unthinkable when he signed, is now a real possibility.
The club hoped to gather enough funds through a deal selling VIP seats at the renovated Camp Nou, a move designed to free up wage space. Their plan hit a snag, and court rulings against Barcelona’s attempts to buy time have complicated the process. Olmo could walk away without a transfer fee if no quick fix is found.
Arsenal, which reportedly made first contact among English suitors, appears ready if the dominoes fall. After a string of injuries to key players, the Gunners are trying to maintain momentum in both domestic and European competition. They see him as more than just a short-term solution. He’s a 26-year-old who can play wide or central, and that versatility would be prized by a manager who values fluid movement in the final third.
Speculation surrounds Olmo’s intentions because he’s never openly pushed to leave. Despite the regulatory maze, he’s remained loyal to Barcelona despite his temporary registration. Still, the club’s financial struggles have stalled every avenue. Other Premier League clubs also lurk, waiting for a sign that Olmo might be available. They know Barcelona’s predicament could create an unforeseen advantage in the winter market.
Nothing is final yet. Barcelona remains hopeful they can juggle the numbers to keep their prized Spaniard. Olmo, for his part, has tried to stay above the fray. If Arsenal capitalizes on this uncertainty, it would mark one of the most dramatic midseason moves in recent memory.
The club believes his skill set would blend well into Mikel Arteta‘s system. If that door opens, Olmo’s decision might no longer be alone. He may have to leave to continue playing at the highest level, even though his heart has long been set on the Camp Nou.
