The Olmo Dilemma: Signed But Unregistered
Barcelona confirmed the signing of Spanish playmaker Dani Olmo from RB Leipzig on Friday, August 9, in a deal worth £51 million. The 26-year-old, who impressed with three goals and two assists at Euro 2024, signed a six-year contract with a staggering £429 million release clause. However, despite the fanfare surrounding his return to Camp Nou, Olmo is unlikely to feature in Barcelona’s La Liga opener against Valencia this Friday.
Financial Hurdles: La Liga’s Salary Cap Rules
According to Cadena Ser, Barcelona’s inability to register Olmo stems from La Liga’s stringent financial regulations. While clubs can spend freely on transfers, they must adhere to a salary cap based on their revenues. Barcelona has hit this cap, meaning the club cannot register new players until they free up wage space.
This situation not only affects Olmo but also leaves other new signings like Inigo Martinez and Vitor Roque in limbo, unable to be registered in time for the start of the season.
The Financial Levers: A Plan Gone Awry
Barcelona’s financial woes are well-documented, and this latest setback might have been avoided if one of the “financial levers” pulled by club president Joan Laporta had worked. Initially, German company Libero agreed to acquire 25% of Barca Studios for €100 million. However, Libero later backed out, refusing to pay the amount. Another company, Aramark, stepped in with €40 million, but the remaining €60 million is still outstanding.
Even if the full amount is eventually paid, Barcelona would still need to raise more funds to meet La Liga’s financial requirements. Last summer, a similar situation arose with Ilkay Gundogan, though the club ultimately managed to register the former Manchester City captain.
Hope Remains: Eyes on Nico Williams
Despite these challenges, Barcelona continues to explore their options, including the potential signing of Spanish winger Nico Williams from Athletic Club. However, unless the financial situation improves, even new signings might face the same registration hurdles that currently plague Olmo and others.