Fabrizio Romano: Manchester United handed blow over sensational January transfer swoop
Man Utd will be limited to loan deals and free agents during the 2025 January transfer window.
Manchester United have been handed a blow in their possible pursuit of Barcelona star Dani Olmo during the January transfer window.
It is well-documented United have effectively no transfer budget to operate with this month, though a possible move for Olmo could be considered an exception to the rules given his unique contract situation at the Camp Nou.
Olmo is currently unable to play for Barcelona in 2025 after the La Liga giants lost their second appeal to register the Spain international for the remainder of the season. It is reported Barcelona remain confident in finding a solution to register Olmo for the second-half of the campaign, though there are no guarantees one will be found.
If his complex situation can't be resolved, United are one of the teams linked with a possible move for the 26-year-old, as the attacking midfielder would technically be available as a free agent. Even with their tight finances, Ruben Amorim's side could possibly afford his wages if they sold some players themselves this month.
It seems increasingly unlikely though. Not only would Olmo likely receive more appealing options than a move to Old Trafford, but his agent insists his sole focus is on resolving his situation with the Catalan club. “It’s a stressful situation for Dani as it would be for any other player. But he’s a great player and person, he’s trying to be calm," Andy Bara told Fabrizio Romano. "Of course, Dani is a winner and he loves to play the games, not to watch them!”
“We are not negotiating with any club. Dani is Barcelona player and he wants to be a Barcelona player. He has made a big effort in his life to be at Barcelona. It was his desire for a long time. Barcelona is the first and last option! Dani, his father, family, me, we’re not thinking about other options."
When quizzed on the reported interest from United and rivals Man City, Bara backed Barcelona to find a solution for the player before they had to consider his long-term future. He added: "To be honest, I feel calm. It could feel strange but I believe in president Laporta, Deco and I feel they will find a solution for Dani. It’s a massive club. I believe that Barcelona will finalise everything and make it happen. La Liga should help them, instead of these reports of Dani not being available for the national team, but I’m sure he will be at Barca for many years. He's happy at the club and Dani has a desire to be there.”