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Barcelona’s efforts to extend Dani Olmo’s registration beyond December 31 have been thwarted after a Spanish court rejected the club’s lawsuit, leaving the forward’s future with the Catalan giants in jeopardy.
Olmo, signed for €57 million from RB Leipzig last summer, was temporarily registered with LaLiga under a provision that allows clubs to replace players sidelined by long-term injuries, such as Andreas Christensen. However, LaLiga rejected Barcelona’s request to extend Olmo’s registration until the end of the season, citing violations of the league’s financial regulations.
Court Ruling and LaLiga’s Stance
In a ruling issued Monday, the court found that Barcelona failed to meet the necessary criteria for an extension. It emphasized that the purpose of the financial exception is to cover competitive gaps caused by injuries, not to enable clubs to exceed salary limits.
LaLiga welcomed the decision, stating it ensures fairness and prevents the creation of unequal conditions across teams. Barcelona’s annual spending cap is set at €426 million, and the club remains in breach of this limit, restricting their ability to register new signings without raising funds or cutting costs.
Barcelona’s Next Steps
With Olmo’s registration set to expire next week, Barcelona faces limited options to retain the Spanish international. Sources indicate the club is exploring two key financial strategies: the presale of VIP seats at the redeveloped Spotify Camp Nou and personal guarantees from board members—similar to methods used previously for Jules Koundé, João Félix, and João Cancelo.
Barcelona president Joan Laporta has expressed optimism, stating the club is pursuing all available avenues to secure Olmo’s registration and that of striker Pau Víctor, who faces a similar situation. However, time is running out, and alternative solutions may be necessary.
Potential Consequences
The court ruling also complicates Olmo’s future. Reports suggest his contract, originally set to run until 2030, includes a clause that could allow him to leave for free if he cannot be registered. While sources close to the club and the player have downplayed this possibility, the uncertainty is a major concern.
Olmo has been a key player for Barcelona this season, scoring six goals in 15 appearances. His departure would be a significant blow as the team navigates a tight title race, currently sitting third in LaLiga, three points behind leaders Atletico Madrid and two behind Real Madrid.
Broader Implications
The setback highlights the ongoing financial challenges facing Barcelona, who remain mired in debt despite efforts to increase revenue. While a new multi-year deal with Nike offers some financial relief, it will not be enough to resolve immediate registration issues.
LaLiga reiterated its commitment to enforcing financial regulations equitably, emphasizing the importance of maintaining competitive balance across the league.
As Barcelona races against the clock, the club’s ability to navigate these financial and legal hurdles could have lasting implications for their competitiveness both domestically and in Europe.
Featured Image Credit: Instagram / daniolmo, Pexels / Mihai Vlasceanu
