Barcelona can register Olmo until five minutes before kickoff vs Athletic; Lenglet’s exit could be key

Barcelona are facing a crucial deadline to register their new signing, Dani Olmo, before tonight’s game against Athletic Bilbao and according to journalist Jaume Marcet, writing for SPORT, they have until five minutes before kickoff to finalise his registration. 

This situation comes amidst several roster changes for the club, adding to the administrative challenges.

As such, manager Hansi Flick has assured that Olmo is in good physical condition and ready to play. However, his participation tonight depends entirely on whether Barcelona can complete the necessary paperwork. 

Interestingly, Olmo is currently the only player in the Blaugrana squad who cannot take the field due to these bureaucratic issues.

Barcelona are working on every possibility

It is said that Barcelona plan to use every possible avenue to register Olmo in time. The official squad list, expected to be announced this morning, will provide the first indication of whether Olmo will be eligible to play. 

Barcelona racing against time to register Dani Olmo. (Photo by MANAURE QUINTERO/AFP via Getty Images)

If his name is missing, it suggests that Barcelona believe resolving his registration today is unlikely. However, the club might still include him in the squad list with a note indicating that his registration is pending.

A key factor that could help Barcelona register Olmo is the potential transfer of Clement Lenglet, who is scheduled for a medical with Atletico Madrid this morning. 

If this deal is completed, it could provide Barcelona with the financial flexibility needed to secure Olmo’s registration from La Liga.

While Barcelona technically have until five minutes before the match to register the forward, the decision will most likely be made by 7 p.m., when the official team sheet is released. 

Aside from the Lenglet deal, the situation with Olmo could also be resolved if the club’s board manages to secure an endorsement today. This endorsement could provide the necessary financial backing to complete his registration, ensuring he is available to play.