Simple solution to disastrous Dani Olmo situation ruled out for Barcelona

Dani Olmo’s future has been in limbo since December 31, when Barcelona were prevented from registering him with LaLiga and the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) due to the financing rules. This leaves the player in a precarious situation, with two potential paths forward: securing registration or obtaining a free transfer.

One potential solution proposed, as a kind of middle-ground solution, was to send the player out on loan, but unfortunately or Barcelona that is not an option.

Neither Dani Olmo (nor Pau Víctor, who is in the same situation) can be loaned out by Barcelona for the remainder of the season because RFEF regulations require players to be registered to facilitate a loan. Article 158 of the federation’s General Regulations, which governs loan agreements, clearly states: “Clubs may temporarily loan or permanently transfer the rights derived from the registration of their professional footballers.” Without registration, a loan is off the table for both players.

Neither Dani Olmo nor Pau Víctor will be able to be loaned by the Blaugrana club between now and the end of the season, as the General Regulations of the RFEF require registration in order to be able to carry out a loan. Article 158 of these regulations, which regulate loans, makes it clear that these require registration. “Clubs can temporarily transfer or permanently transfer the rights derived from the registration of their professional footballers” stresses the first point. Without registration, there is no way out for either Pau Víctor or Dani Olmo.

Freedom with a return clause for Olmo

Loans are ruled out, and a transfer is also impossible. Even if Barcelona were willing to transfer its marquee 2024 signing, the regulations prevent a player from being transferred to another club if they are not registered. Article 160 of the RFEF regulations on permanent transfers underscores this point: “Clubs may transfer the rights derived from the registration and license of their footballers under agreed conditions.” Without registration, a transfer cannot occur.

If registration issues are not resolved, the only remaining option for Olmo and Pau Víctor would be to terminate their contracts and sign with another club to play out the rest of the season. However, this could leave the door open for a return to Barcelona after fulfilling their contracts elsewhere.

For now, both players continue training as usual, awaiting further developments.