European giants look to hijack Barcelona target in January

Barcelona plan to not make any January signings has opened the doors for European giants to persuade Dinamo Zagreb midfielder, Dani Olmo.

The 21-year-old was a student of the famous Barcelona academy- La Masia- before leaving for the Croatian side, Dinamo Zagreb, in 2014. The youngster currently plays a crucial role in the midfield of the Croatian club but has opened up about his desire to move elsewhere to secure a place at the Euro 2020.

Dani spent seven years in La Masia before departing from Nou Camp but now Barca have placed Olmo as one of their prime targets for the Summer of 2020. The youngster recently spoke to Catalan newspaper L’Esportiu stating he wants a January move,

"“It makes me happy the idea that Barcelona reconsiders the possibility of bringing me home, My goal is to go to the European Championship [with Spain] and it will be difficult for me if in the next six months I’m only playing in a smaller league, like the one in Croatia.”More from Everything BarcaFC Barcelona tracking Belgian WonderkidFC Barcelona vs Betis Player RatingsBarça boss Xavi to get contract extensionFC Barcelona planning swoop for Arsenal midfielderBarcelona interested in €30 million wonderkid"

Barca have reportedly ruled out any transfers in this month and look to sign Dani in the summer instead. Mundo Deportivo reports that this has opened doors for many European giants such as Manchester United,  Manchester City, Juventus, Milan, Dortmund and Atletico, all approaching the Croatian side to finalize a January deal for the playmaker.

Tottenham, who were previously linked with Olmo last summer but failed to make a formal transfer request have now reignited their interests along with the London side, Chelsea, who have also displayed their affection for the talented La Masia graduate.

Dinamo Zagreb are open to part ways with the player in January for a transfer fee of €40 million. Report claims United manager Solskjaer is looking to add creative inspiration to his midfield this month.

The 21-year-old, however, has spoken to Croatian T-Portal about his demand, claiming he desires to play regular minutes making both Barcelona and Manchester United not the ideal move.

"“Very simple – a club where I will play. Because I am still young and for me it is most important that I have minutes.”"

He also opened up about his desire to play Champions League football,

"“Last summer was an ideal time to take a next step, In the end, it did not happen and I said that I was equally happy because I wanted to play Champions League. But I think my cycle there is over and I want to take the next step to continue improving,” he told Jugones."

The Spaniard is in fantastic form with the national side and has also managed to score 8 goals and provide seven assists for the Croatian side this season. His undisputed talent and cheaper price tag will attract many clubs, and it remains to be seen if the player wishes to be patient until summer to reunite with his former club.

Would you like to see Dani Olmo at the Nou Camp?