Real Madrid are reportedly ready to rival FC Barcelona in pursuit of RB Leipzig star Dani Olmo, who could cost around €40 million.
According to El Gol Digital, Real Madrid have set their sights on Dani Olmo. The RB Leipzig playmaker has emerged as one of the top targets for Zinedine Zidane, who is expected to usher in massive changes to the squad in the upcoming summer transfer window.
Part of the Leipzig side since January 2020, Olmo has enjoyed immense success in the Bundesliga – becoming one of the club’s most prominent creative players. As a result, the Bundesliga outfit could demand around €40 million for his sale this summer, with FC Barcelona also keen on re-signing the former La Masia prospect.
In what is his first full season in the Bundesliga, Olmo has already been involved in 13 goals in 29 matches so far. His combination play with Christopher Nknunku and Emil Forsberg have helped Leipzig mount a title challenge against Bayern Munich, although Die Roten Bullen are on the verge of losing out in the chase, after playing out a goalless draw with Hoffenheim on the weekend.
At Real Madrid, the Spaniard will be considered as a direct replacement for Isco, whose future at the club is uncertain after being linked with a move to England earlier this year.
As for Barcelona, it appears they are preparing for life without Philippe Coutinho next season. The Brazilian has already been linked with a move to Premier League giants Arsenal and Tottenham in the summer, ideally paving the way for Olmo to emerge as a potentially key player for Ronald Koeman next season.
Leipzig themselves won’t be averse to cashing in on Olmo, having signed Dominic Szoboszlai in January. Although the Hungarian international is yet to feature in a single game for his new team, he is certain to be given a prominent role in the first-team next season, which could even come at the expense of Olmo.
A return to Spain by joining either Real Madrid or Barcelona, therefore, might not be a bad option for the 22-year-old, knowing it would significantly help him gain more recognition in the Spanish national team – just a year before the start of the 2022 FIFA World Cup. In addition, he will have the opportunity to emulate the likes of Isco and Luka Modric next season.
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Real Madrid’s pursuit of Olmo, though, could hinge on the future of Martin Odegaard. Currently on loan at Arsenal, the young Norwegian is fiercely courted by the Gunners and amid a strained relationship with coach Zidane, he could be offloaded in the upcoming summer transfer window.
It remains unknown as to how much Real Madrid may demand for Odegaard, but it could go a long way in helping the club fund the €40 million for Olmo next season. However, it will also be interesting to see if Barcelona can beat their bitter rivals to the Spaniard, despite their financial crunch.
