Arsenal can now sign ‘exceptional’ £51m star in major bargain deal next month – opinion | OneFootball

Arsenal have a fantastic opportunity to sign one of Spain’s best players at the turn of the year.

The Gunners have performed below expectations in the first half of the campaign. They are presently six points behind Premier League leaders Liverpool, who have a game in hand.

A high-profile signing could be targeted in January to boost their title challenge, and we believe manager Mikel Arteta could request a wide attacking player after Bukayo Saka’s injury.

Saka underwent a hamstring surgery earlier this week and could be out for over two months.

In our view, the Gunners should grab the opportunity to sign Barcelona’s Dani Olmo on a free transfer.

The Spaniard joined Barcelona from RB Leipzig for £51 million last summer, but they have only managed to register him with La Liga until December 31.

La Liga have refused to re-register Olmo for the second half of the campaign until the Blaugrana can recoup funds to settle some of their debts.

The Commercial Court 10 of Barcelona gave the verdict in La Liga’s favour yesterday, but Barcelona have another hearing in a local court on December 30.

Should they lose the case, Olmo could depart as a free agent at the start of 2025. If that happens, Arsenal should capitalise and sign him on a Bosman deal.

Olmo would be a superb free transfer signing

The Euro 2024 winner has played as an attacking midfielder for Barcelona this term. He has accumulated six goals and one assist from 15 appearances.

However, he can also comfortably operate from the right or left wing and can likewise lead the attack. Olmo has done so on many occasions for Spain.

His versatility would make him an ideal signing for Arteta. The Gunners manager likes to work with flexible players, and Olmo would be a regular starter.

The former Leipzig man has a knack for making goal contributions, but he has also excelled with his high pressing, dribbling skills and long ball distribution.

Olmo, who was described as ‘exceptional‘ by RB Leipzig managing director Marcel Schafer, would be a major bargain signing on a free transfer this winter.

It appears a no-brainer decision for the Gunners to sign the playmaker.

Meanwhile, Arsenal should consider a loan deal until the end of the campaign if Olmo is reluctant to leave Barcelona on a free transfer due to their inability to register him.

Olmo has been injured for an average of 20 games in the last three seasons, but he would not represent a risky signing for Arsenal if he joins on a Bosman or loan move.

Stats from Transfermarkt.com.