In a surprising twist to the January transfer window speculation, reports have emerged linking Arsenal with a potential move for Dani Olmo. The Spanish midfielder, currently plying his trade at RB Leipzig, has become one of Europe’s hottest commodities due to his creative brilliance and versatility. However, the story takes an even more intriguing turn with Barcelona’s interest in an Arsenal player as part of their contingency planning.
Barcelona, grappling with their ever-present financial woes, are reportedly keen on Arsenal’s standout midfielder Thomas Partey. While Dani Olmo is on their radar, the Catalan giants face significant hurdles in registering new players due to strict La Liga salary cap regulations. If they fail to secure Olmo, Arsenal might emerge as beneficiaries of this transfer saga.
Reports from Mundo Deportivo suggest that Barcelona’s recruitment team, led by Deco, sees Partey as a possible replacement for Frenkie de Jong, whose future at the club remains uncertain. Partey’s contract situation at Arsenal—set to expire next summer—has made him an attractive option for Barcelona. Deco reportedly views Partey as a cost-effective, versatile, and physically imposing addition to Barcelona’s midfield.
Arsenal’s January transfer plans are also heating up. The Gunners, currently trailing Liverpool in the Premier League title race, are desperate to strengthen their squad. The recent injury to Bukayo Saka, which sidelines the winger until March, has left manager Mikel Arteta searching for reinforcements to maintain Arsenal’s title ambitions.
Dani Olmo has long been admired by Arsenal’s hierarchy. His ability to play across various attacking positions aligns perfectly with Arteta’s tactical philosophy. With five goals and four assists in the Bundesliga this season, Olmo’s form makes him a prime candidate to fill the void left by Saka’s absence.
If Barcelona fails to secure Olmo, Arsenal could swoop in to land the Spaniard. Sources suggest RB Leipzig values Olmo at around €70 million, a hefty price tag but one Arsenal may be willing to meet given the circumstances. Arsenal has already shown their financial muscle in recent windows, and a marquee signing like Olmo could reinvigorate their title challenge.
Former Arsenal player Adrian Clarke recently endorsed the idea of Arsenal pursuing Olmo. Speaking to the media, Clarke remarked, “Dani Olmo is the type of player Arsenal needs right now. He’s creative, dynamic, and can change games in an instant. Losing Saka is a huge blow, but Olmo could help bridge the gap until Saka returns.”
While Arsenal eyes Olmo, Barcelona’s interest in Partey raises questions about the midfielder’s future at the Emirates. Partey has been a crucial cog in Arteta’s system since his arrival from Atletico Madrid in 2020. However, injuries and inconsistency have marred his time in North London, leading to speculation about his long-term role at the club.
Barcelona’s interest in Partey is reportedly serious. The Catalans see him as a natural successor to De Jong, who continues to attract interest from Premier League clubs. Deco’s admiration for Partey, coupled with Barcelona’s financial constraints, makes the Ghanaian an appealing target, especially if he could arrive on a free transfer next summer.
For Arsenal, losing Partey would be a significant setback, but the club is already considering contingency plans. West Ham’s Mohammed Kudus has been mentioned as a potential replacement. The Ghanaian international, valued at £90 million, has caught Arsenal’s eye with his stellar performances this season.
Mikel Arteta’s January plans are not limited to Olmo or Kudus. The Gunners are also reportedly monitoring Wolves’ Matheus Cunha. The Brazilian forward has been in scintillating form this season, scoring ten goals and showcasing his ability to lead the line effectively. With Gabriel Jesus struggling for consistency, Cunha could provide Arsenal with the attacking firepower they need.
As January approaches, Arsenal finds itself at a crossroads. The injury to Saka and their current nine-point deficit behind Liverpool have added urgency to their transfer dealings. Whether they pursue Olmo, Partey departs, or they target another high-profile signing, the coming weeks will be pivotal in shaping Arsenal’s season.
For Barcelona, the stakes are equally high. Their pursuit of Partey and Olmo underscores the challenges they face in assembling a competitive squad under financial constraints. Should Arsenal beat them to Olmo, the Catalans will need to rethink their strategy.
The January window promises drama for both clubs. Arsenal fans will be eager to see if Olmo’s creative flair can bolster their title ambitions, while Barcelona supporters will watch closely to see if Partey becomes the latest addition to their midfield.
In a transfer saga involving two European giants, the outcomes could redefine the ambitions of Arsenal and Barcelona for the remainder of the season. For now, the ball is firmly in the court of both clubs’ decision-makers.