Barcelona could launch a move for €60 million-rated Euro star if midfielder leaves

Recent reports have indicated that Barcelona have not entirely ruled out the prospect of Ilkay Gundogan leaving the club.

The German international is coming on the back of a strong season where he emerged as one of the club’s top performers. However, there were times Gundogan was disappointed with the team’s progression.

Barcelona eyeing Olmo as Gundogan replacement

In the event Gundogan does leave this summer, Barcelona could be open to making a move for Dani Olmo.

This is according to SPORT, which suggests Barça have identified Olmo as a potential reinforcement if the German international departs.

Olmo was one of Spain’s top performers in the recently concluded European Championship. The RB Leipzig forward was involved in five goals, as he helped his nation secure the coveted tournament.

Olmo’s performances have not gone unnoticed and Barcelona are among the clubs keen on his services.

Can Olmo replace Gundogan at Barcelona? (Photo by ADRIAN DENNIS/AFP via Getty Images)

An ideal economic opportunity

From a sporting perspective, the idea of replacing Olmo with Gundogan could make a world of sense.

However, the move could also make a lot of sense economically. Gundogan is one of the highest-paid members of the first-team setup and his potential exit could go a long way in helping Barcelona reduce their salary mass.

This, in turn, could help them fund a move for Dani Olmo, who has a €60 million release clause in his contract that can be activated before July 20.

In fact, the Catalans can target both Nico Williams and Dani Olmo, should Gundogan leave the club.

Barcelona, though, are set to face stiff competition from various European giants, including Bayern Munich, in the race to sign the Spanish international this summer.

Not to mention, the pursuit of Olmo could depend on Gundogan’s departure. For the time being, the German seems content with the idea of continuing at the club for at least another year.