According to Manchester Evening News, Manchester City are considering a potential move for RB Leipzig’s Dani Olmo. The Spanish forward is being eyed as a possible replacement for Riyad Mahrez, who has drawn interest from Saudi Arabian side Al-Ahli, with the prospect of a transfer to the Middle East this summer.
Olmo’s Rise In European Football
Having come through the ranks at Barcelona’s youth setup, Dani Olmo signed for RB Leipzig from Dinamo Zagreb in January 2020 for a fee in the region of £26 million. Over the course of the last two years, he has made 102 appearances for the Red Bulls, scoring 13 goals and providing 24 assists. He has been a regular starter for Leipzig and praised his creativity and dribbling ability. He is seen as one of Europe’s most talented young players and is expected to have a bright future.
Even in the last campaign, the Spanish international was consistent and reliable in the attacking third, as he averaged 1.9 shots, 1.7 key passes and 1.7 dribbles per game in the Bundesliga. He was also accurate with his ball distribution after completing 77.3% of his attempted passes in the German top flight (stats via whoscored).
Should Manchester City Boss Pep Guardiola Move In For Him This Summer?
Olmo was also linked with a move to Man City last summer, but a deal did not materialise any further in the heaps of speculation. However, should Riyad Mahrez make an exit to Saudi Arabia, the Sky Blues would have to bring in a decent replacement, and Olmo remains a perfect fit for Pep Guardiola.
Olmo remains a very creative player who is capable of creating chances for himself and his teammates in front of the goal. He has good vision to find his teammates on the run and is able to make incisive through balls to split the opposition’s defence. He is also a decent dribbler and is able to get past defenders with his pace and trickery from the wide areas.
The Spaniard’s versatility sets him apart from a traditional winger, as he can play on both flanks and as a number nine. Olmo is a proficient finisher, capable of finding the back of the net from various positions, both inside and outside the box. His shots carry power and precision as he accurately places them. Additionally, he excels in taking free kicks, with several impressive goals scored from set pieces.
Hence, Guardiola would be wise to secure his services in case Mahrez sets out for Saudi Arabia. The 25-year-old could be a long-term replacement for Mahrez, and he has the potential to grow into an outstanding player, much like the Moroccan international.
