This time, the question isn’t about which club will pry him away from RB Leipzig, but whether any team can secure his services from Barcelona.
Just five months after his move to Camp Nou, his future hangs in the balance. Due to registration issues, he’s on the verge of becoming a free agent despite his over £50 million summer signing.
Back then, Hansi Flick’s side wasn’t the only one interested; top clubs across Europe were also keen to bring him on board. ..Continue Reading
Chelsea, amidst their constant squad revamps, especially in attack, were naturally among those linked.
Even though Olmo was coming off another stellar season in Germany and played a pivotal role in Spain’s impressive Euro 2024 victory, Chelsea’s interest didn’t materialize into serious talks or a bid.
Conversely, Barcelona made Olmo their top priority, determined to make him their marquee summer signing. Olmo, a product of La Masia academy, was set on returning.
Financial hurdles were inevitable for Barcelona as they had to appease La Liga in a move that cost them Ilkay Gundogan.
Even then, Olmo could only be registered as an emergency signing after ex-Chelsea defender Andreas Christensen sustained a significant injury.
This was a temporary fix, and on December 31, the issue resurfaced, placing Olmo and Barcelona in a precarious position. Hence, Olmo has become perhaps the most notable name to watch in January 2025.
Chelsea, however, isn’t expected to be closely involved in this saga. Unlike during the summer or previous transfer windows, the deal makes little sense for them now.
Enzo Maresca has seen significant changes in his squad over the summer, including the arrival of Joao Felix. His £45 million signing, initially questionable, has remained just as puzzling after half a season.
Felix isn’t part of Maresca’s preferred Premier League lineup, as shown in recent matches against Everton and Fulham, where he remained on the bench despite available points.
While he’s excelled against Conference League opponents, this doesn’t justify Chelsea’s investment.
As an attacking midfielder who prefers playing as a No.10, Felix competes for minutes with Cole Palmer and occasionally fills in as a left-wing option.
Unless an unforeseen event occurs, such as Felix leaving or getting injured, there’s no room for Olmo in the current squad.
Carney Chukwuemeka, a highly-rated but seldom-used attacking option, is almost certain to leave before the window closes on February 3. Even if he does depart, Olmo wouldn’t be satisfied with just filling in his minutes.
This leaves the scenario where one of Europe’s top playmakers might be available for nothing. Nonetheless, Chelsea won’t be in the race.
They weren’t significantly involved in the pursuit for Olmo during the summer when assembling their squad, and now that it’s formed, there’s neither logic nor space to add him six months later.
