Barcelona and La Liga release statements on confusing Dani Olmo transfer saga amid club’s search for extension to registration deadline – with free agency threat still looming:

Barcelona’s acquisition of Spanish midfielder Dani Olmo from RB Leipzig in August 2024, for a reported €60 million (£51 million), was initially seen as a significant boost to their squad. However, due to La Liga’s stringent financial fair play regulations, the club could only register Olmo for the first half of the season, utilizing an exception that allows temporary registration by reallocating a portion of the salary of an injured player—in this case, defender Andreas Christensen.

As the December 31 registration deadline approached, Barcelona sought to extend Olmo’s registration for the remainder of the season. Their efforts included legal appeals and financial maneuvers, such as proposing the sale of VIP boxes at the renovated Camp Nou to generate the necessary funds.

Despite these attempts, both a Barcelona court and La Liga rejected the club’s appeals, citing non-compliance with financial regulations. The failure to secure Olmo’s registration has significant implications. A clause in his contract permits him to become a free agent if not registered by January 1, 2025.

This situation has attracted interest from several top European clubs, including Manchester United, Manchester City, Bayern Munich, and others, who are keen to acquire the talented midfielder without a transfer fee.

Within Barcelona, the uncertainty surrounding Olmo’s status has caused confusion and concern among players and staff. The club’s management, led by President Joan Laporta, faces criticism for the financial mismanagement that led to this predicament.

The potential loss of a key player like Olmo, especially without financial compensation, could have lasting repercussions on the team’s performance and morale. As of now, Barcelona’s options are limited.

The club has requested new licenses from the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) to register Olmo and forward Pau Víctor, who faces a similar situation.

However, both La Liga and the RFEF have expressed skepticism about the viability of this approach. Without a timely resolution, Olmo’s departure seems imminent, marking a significant setback for Barcelona amid ongoing financial challenges.