If Ole Gunnar Solskjaer wants to bring Dani Olmo to Manchester United the likelihood is he is going to face some stiff competition from some of the biggest clubs in Europe.
The Spanish international scored on his senior debut for the national side in the 7-0 win against Malta in a Euro 2020 qualifier.
Olmo had only been on the pitch for three minutes after being introduced as a 66th minute substitute, and after being played in one-on-one, he calmly rounded the goalkeeper and tapped the ball into the empty net.
The Dinamo Zagreb star is regarded as one of the brightest prospects in European football and his breakthrough with the national side will only enhance his burgeoning reputation and market value.
United were claimed by Croatian newspaper Sportske Novotski in July to be considering a 40 million Euro (£35.8 million) move for Olmo.
His manager has tipped him for stardom
The 21-year-old has enjoyed a flying start to this season, having scored six goals and laid on six others in 17 appearances for Dinamo in all competitions so far.
Olmo burst onto the scene with three goals in five games to fire Spain to win the European under-21 championships this summer, including one in the final.
Speaking to 24sata, Zagreb manager Nenad Bjelica opened up on the player’s ability and said he has what it takes to play for Europe’s elite.
“Dani is impressive both as a footballer and as a person,” the coach said. “He’s very modest and ambitious at the same time. He wants to learn every day and I’m proud to have him on the team.
“I think we are just watching his last matches at Dinamo. There are so many offers. In the end, the club and the player will decide together what is best for both sides. He is ready to play for the best clubs in Europe.”
Zagreb currently sit top of the Croatian first division and are third – level on points with second-placed Shakhtar Donetsk – in Group C of the Champions League.
Versatility
Olmo is capable of playing as a winger, but his performances for Zagreb this season have come in a central attacking role.
United are in need of further attacking options and with Olmo’s versatility and age profile fitting the identity Solskjaer is trying to create, United cannot afford to pass up the opportunity of signing talents like the Spaniard.
He could prove to be the perfect missing link alongside the devastating trio of James, Rashford and Martial.
In four Champions League games this season, Olmo has already registered one goal and one assist, but he also averaging 2 shots per game, 1 key pass and a staggering 4.3 dribbles.
His work rate and ability to carry out his defensive duties should also appeal to Solskjaer, in Europe’s top club competition, he is averaging 2.3 tackles, 1.5 interceptions and 2.3 clearances per game.
Olmo was part of Barcelona’s La Masia academy, before deciding to make the surprise move to Croatia, but his rise to prominence will probably result in the Catalan giants attempting to re-sign him similar to the likes of Gerard Pique and Cesc Fabregas.
With his contract expiring in 2021 and him previously stating his desire to leave, Zagreb will know that they will have to cash in on their prized asset, who is ready to play in a bigger league, sooner rather than later.
However, with other European top clubs already circling, if United see Olmo as part of their long-term plan, they have to act now.
If he maintains his current form for club and country it seems very likely that he will be picked in Spain’s Euro 2020 squad, and if he has an international tournament similar to hist last, his value will soar further.
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