Barcelona Eyes Dani Olmo While European Giants Circle
In a move that could reshape their midfield, Barcelona has presented a comprehensive six-year contract to RB Leipzig's Dani Olmo. The Catalan giants are keen on securing the Spanish international’s expertise and are ready to activate his €60 million release clause, which they propose to pay either as a lump sum or in installments.
Time is of the essence for Barcelona, as the release clause is set to adjust this Saturday. The Blaugrana are urging Leipzig to retain the current figure for a few more weeks to finalize the deal. The negotiation includes a strategic structuring of Olmo’s salary. For the first two seasons, Olmo would receive a reduced wage in an effort to comply with LaLiga's stringent fair play rules. A substantial increase in his salary would commence from the third year onward.
Despite Barcelona's interest, other football powerhouses including Manchester City and Bayern Munich have expressed a keen desire to bring Olmo into their squads. Meanwhile, Liverpool, Manchester United, and Atletico Madrid are closely monitoring the situation, adding to the competitive bidding environment for the 25-year-old midfielder.
Newcastle's Interest in Noni Madueke
Elsewhere in the Premier League, Newcastle United has initiated contacts with Chelsea regarding a potential deal for Noni Madueke. Chelsea views Madueke as a viable alternative to other options like West Ham United's Jarrod Bowen and Leeds United's Crysencio Summerville, considering him the safer and more feasible candidate for their roster.
As Chelsea remains open to letting some of their fringe players move on, the Magpies might find themselves in a favorable position to negotiate for the talented winger.
Veteran Striker Choupo-Moting Attracts Interest
Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting, now a free agent after concluding his tenure with Bayern Munich at the close of the 2023-24 season, is generating notable interest. With Mainz reaching out to his agent, a return to a former club where he scored 20 goals in 74 appearances could be on the cards.
Additionally, the 34-year-old has piqued the interests of West Ham United and Inter Milan. His consistent performance of tallying 19 goals in his last 88 games highlights his enduring capabilities as a striker.
Napoli Pointing to Lukaku Amid Osimhen Exit
In Serie A, Napoli is on the hunt for a new striker to step in for Victor Osimhen, who is poised to join Paris Saint-Germain. Among their primary targets is Chelsea’s Romelu Lukaku. The Belgian striker himself has shown eagerness for a switch to Napoli.
However, Chelsea's asking price of €40 million for Lukaku will be a significant consideration. Napoli’s ability to secure Lukaku hinges on the funds they receive from Osimhen's anticipated move to PSG.
Manchester United's Midfield Enhancement Plans
Manchester United is aiming to bolster its midfield by adding Adrien Rabiot and Manuel Ugarte to their ranks. Rabiot, now a free agent following his departure from Juventus, has publicly expressed his ambition to play in the Premier League.
On the other hand, acquiring Ugarte from Paris Saint-Germain will be a heftier challenge, given the French powerhouse's valuation of €70 million for the Uruguayan midfielder.
Aston Villa's Ambitions
Aston Villa continues to eye offensive reinforcements, with manager Unai Emery taking a keen interest in Athletic Club's Nico Williams. The Villans have already secured the signing of winger Jaden Philogene, but the potential addition of Williams would further enhance their attacking options.
To facilitate this move, Villa would need to orchestrate the exit of Jhon Durán. However, they face stiff competition from various top-tier European clubs for Williams' signature.