Arsenal seem willing to do anything to sign this FC Barcelona player, who they consider the ideal replacement for Martin Ødegaard.
The Norwegian captain has been a crucial piece in Mikel Arteta’s project for years, but his season has been below par. This has led to the London club now considering scenarios that seemed unlikely just a few months ago.
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AS writes that a potential sale would have direct consequences for FC Barcelona. The Gunners have set their sights on Dani Olmo as the ideal replacement for the Norwegian playmaker – while Barcelona are not completely closing the door on a sale if a significant bid were to come.
Ødegaard no longer seems untouchable
Arsenal have had a strong collective season and have established themselves as one of the premier projects in Europe. Still, not all players have experienced the season in the same way, and Ødegaard is one of the names that is causing debate in the club.
The Norwegian is still a high-quality player, with leadership qualities, an eye for the game and a special ability to move between the lines. But his influence has been less than in previous years. Physical ailments, lack of continuity at times and inconsistencies in the big games have contributed to the feeling that Arsenal may be nearing the end of an era.
Arteta has always had faith in him. He gave him the captain’s armband, gave him creative freedom and built a large part of his attacking play around his left foot. Still, elite football does not wait for anyone. Arsenal wants to continue to grow, compete for all titles and avoid the project stagnating.
Therefore, the club can consider a sale if a strong bid should come. It is not a decided decision or a mandatory resignation, but a scenario that is no longer taboo. Ødegaard still has a high value in Europe, and a sale could finance a significant offensive renewal.
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Dani Olmo appears to be the ideal replacement
In this context, Dani Olmo has gained momentum on Arsenal’s wish list. The Spanish international fulfills many of the needs the London club would have if they lose Ødegaard: creativity, precision in the last pass, mobility and the ability to interpret different zones in attack.
Olmo is not a static attacking midfielder. He can play centrally, start from the left, act as a secondary striker or move into inner areas to connect on the wings. This versatility is highly valued at the Emirates, where Arteta particularly appreciates players who can adapt to different roles.
Moreover, the Spaniard knows the demands of the elite. He has competed in Germany, in Barcelona and on the Spanish national team, and his profile fits well into an Arsenal team that is looking for technical, intelligent players who are ready for high speed.
The biggest challenge is his situation at Barcelona. Dani Olmo came as a significant signing and is still a player the club values, but he hasn’t always had the prominent role he wanted. The competition in attack is tough, and the Blaugrana needs to generate income to be able to operate in the market.
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Barcelona listens – but does not give away Olmo
FC Barcelona do not have Dani Olmo on their list of players they want to get rid of, but they do not consider him untouchable at any price. Sports management understands that the summer will require tough decisions, and some significant sales may be necessary to fund new signings.
Olmo has a strong reputation in Europe. His technical quality, experience, and age make him a very attractive asset in the market. If Arsenal decides to make a serious bid and presents a high amount, Barcelona will be willing to listen.
Nevertheless, the operation will depend on several factors. Firstly, what happens to Ødegaard. If the Norwegian stays, Arsenal’s interest in Olmo could wane. Secondly, the player’s own willingness to decide whether he wants to continue fighting for playing time at Camp Nou or try his hand at an adventure in the Premier League.
For Arsenal, the signing will make sense from a sporting perspective. For Barcelona, it could make financial sense. And for Olmo, it will represent an opportunity to take an important role in one of Europe’s most powerful projects.
It is the market that gets the last word. Ødegaard no longer seems completely untouchable, Arsenal are looking for top options, and Dani Olmo has become a strategic player. London and Barcelona are aware that summer can shift key pieces.
On Sporten.com live service you can follow Martin Ødegaard, in the Premier League, Champions League and for Norway in the World Cup.
