BARÇA WOULD SIGN A 'TOP' PLAYER IN EGARENSE
The reason why FC Barcelona considers the signing of Dani Olmo a priority
Published:3/08/2024 - 18:00h
Updated:3/08/2024 - 18:01h
FC Barcelona seems to be aiming all its guns at the signing of Dani Olmo, an addition that would be top-level for the Blaugranas, not only because of the player's cachet, but also because of everything he is capable of contributing to the culé offensive front
The possible arrival of Dani Olmo at FC Barcelona seems to be getting closer and closer. Recent reports suggest that negotiations with the player from Terrassa could be well underway, with only RB Leipzig, the club that owns his contract and has a clear position on the player's departure, a position that the Catalan side is trying to match satisfactorily.
Now, if the Catalan team ends up acquiring the services of the player from Terrassa, they would be adding to their ranks a top-level player, with versatility as one of his main attractions. Although his preferred position is that of playmaker, a position that will be especially relevant in Hansi Flick's 4-2-3-1 scheme, he would also provide several options in the attacking front.
The tactical variants that Dani Olmo can offer FC Barcelona
So, despite the strong competition in the playmaker position, where he would have to dispute the position with other 'cracks' such as Pedri González, Fermín López and İlkay Gündoğan, Dani Olmo also has the ability to perform as a left-winger. This versatility is key, especially considering the possible arrival of Nico Williams or another winger to reinforce that flank.
At the same time, it is important to note that, although being a left winger is not his priority, and a position in which the Barcelona squad does not see him as a starter, the former Dinamo Zagreb player could be centralized at times, taking advantage of the offensive projection of a winger like Alejandro Balde. This tactical flexibility is slightly reminiscent of the role played by the João Cancelo-João Félix duo last season, where one 'ate' the flank offensively speaking (Cancelo) and the other played as a 'playmaker' constantly throwing himself into more centralized areas (Félix).
In addition to his roles as a playmaker and winger, Olmo can play as a right-winger and false nine. This last demarcation is crucial given the need of the Barcelona squad to have more than one player capable of playing in the '9' position, especially with the current situation of Vitor Roque and the promising alternative of Pau Victor.
Other attributes to value on the part of the Terrassa native
The versatility of the '10' of 'La Roja' is complemented by a good goal-scoring instinct, as he demonstrated at Euro 2024 by being one of the 'Pichichis' of the tournament with three goals. Although his scoring figures at club level are not spectacular (average of 7.4 goals per season in the last five years), Barcelona are confident that in the right environment, his goalscoring performance can improve significantly.
In addition to his great scoring skills, Dani Olmo brings creativity, unbalanced one-on-one play and a great ability to assist his teammates, together with a leadership and competitive spirit worthy of a top-level player, qualities that are highly valued in a team that prides itself on being a winner. These positive arguments could lead the club to end up betting on this addition, despite not being the most economical, it would be an offensive solution of great impact.