Manchester City is intensifying its search for a suitable replacement for Kevin De Bruyne, whose departure at the end of the season has left a major gap in the squad. Despite the Belgian playmaker’s recent drop in form and the criticism that followed, he remains a crucial figure in the team.
According to the Spanish outlet El Nacional, City has set its sights on Dani Olmo—a player highly regarded by Pep Guardiola, who has monitored his progress since his days at Dinamo Zagreb and RB Leipzig during the Champions League.
City had previously shown interest in Olmo after his standout performances at the Euros, but Barcelona moved first to sign him. Now, the Premier League champions are preparing a lucrative offer aimed at convincing Barcelona president Joan Laporta and sporting director Deco to sell. The proposal reportedly includes €65 million plus an additional €15 million in bonuses, potentially placing it among the club’s most high-value sales, behind the Neymar transfer.
Still, the move raises eyebrows. Olmo is not a core part of new coach Hansi Flick’s setup, and with several other options available in his position—along with Olmo’s history of injuries—Barcelona may be open to letting him go.