Barcelona Transfer News Roundup: Catalans suffer Dani Olmo blow, club advised against Joao Felix move, and more - July 20, 2024

Barcelona are working to add new faces to their roster before the start of the new campaign. The Catalans endured a disappointing 2023/24 season under Xavi and opted to replace him with Hansi Flick at the end of May.

Meanwhile, the Blaugrana have suffered a setback in their efforts to take Dani Olmo back to Camp Nou. Elsewhere, a club legend has advised the La Liga giants against a move for Joao Felix.

On that note, let's look at the major Barcelona transfer stories from July 20, 2024.

---

Barcelona suffer Dani Olmo blow

Dani Olmo could be on his way to the Etihad

Manchester City have taken the lead in the race to sign Dani Olmo this summer, according to Football Insider. The Spanish midfielder is a wanted man this year following his triumphant run with La Roja at Euro 2024.

Olmo helped his nation deal with Pedri's unfortunate injury and registering three goals and two assists from six games. Barcelona are pleased with his efforts and are reportedly eyeing a move this summer.

The Catalans are embarking on a new journey under Hansi Flick and the German manager reportedly sees the 26-year-old as a good fit to his tactics. However, City are ready to ruin his plans.

The Premier League champions have already held recent talks to secure Olmo's signature. Bayern Munich also remain in the race, but City are likely to get their man if they so desire this summer.

The La Liga giants are focusing all their efforts on securing Nico Williams, which will further work to the English club's advantage. However, City are yet to submit an official bid for the Spaniard.

Catalans advised against Joao Felix move by former player

Joao Felix

Barcelona legend Rivaldo has advised the club against a move for Joao Felix. The Portuguese forward spent last season on loan at Camp Nou, registering 10 goals and six assists from 44 games across competitions.

His efforts have pleased the club, who are considering a permanent stay this summer. However, their poor financial condition has raised doubts about a move.

Felix reportedly wants his future sorted before July 27, when he is scheduled to return to pre-season training with Atletico Madrid. The player is no longer part of Diego Simeone's plans and has his heart set on rejoining the Catalans.

However, speaking recently as cited by Barca Universal, Rivaldo said that Felix is not good enough for Camp Nou.

“Joao Felix is undoubtedly a great player… but I think he has to do something else to play at Barcelona. To stay at Barca you have to stand out, you have to score goals, you have to make the fans happy. Joao Felix hasn’t played well at the Euro," said Rivaldo.

He continued:

“And last season he played good games with Barcelona, but he was also on the bench in other games. And to be a Barca player you have to be a player who can be an absolute starter. Barcelona need players who can make a difference. Joao is a great player, but he has to give something else. He has to do much more than he did last year.”

The Brazilian legend went on to state that his former club needs to target three new faces this summer.

“Barca must sign two defenders and a striker to strengthen the squad. Lewandowski is a world star, he’s like that, but sometimes we know that age and injuries can take their toll,” said Rivaldo.

Vitor Roque was roped in this January to eventually succeed Lewandowski but has failed to live up to expectations.

Barcelona likely to miss out on Xavi Simons

Xavi Simons

Bayern Munich are leading the race to sign Xavi Simons this summer, according to SPORT. The Dutch midfielder is a wanted man following his exploits on loan with RB Leipzig last season.

Simon registered 10 goals and 15 assists from 43 games across competitions. He was also key to his nation's run to the semifinals of Euro 2024, registering one goal and three assists. He has returned to Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) but is unlikely to stay beyond the summer at the Parc des Princes.

The 21-year-old rose through the ranks at Camp Nou and his explosive form has sparked talk of a return this year. Barcelona are looking to inject a shot of creativity to their squad and reportedly have their eyes on Simons.

However, it now appears that he could be on his way to the Allianz Arena. The Bavarians are desperate to get their man and have reportedly submitted an offer worth €90m to secure his services. The Catalans do not have the finances to counter such a deal and as such, look destined to miss out on their former player.