Barcelona’s standout player Dani Olmo may depart for free in January due to financial difficulties.

Olmo’s Future at Barcelona in Jeopardy

In a surprising turn of events, Dani Olmo’s future at Barcelona could be hanging by a thread, with reports suggesting he may leave the club for free in January. According to *The Sun*, the Catalan giants are facing significant challenges in meeting the financial obligations necessary to officially register the 26-year-old for the second half of the season.

The situation is precarious. If Barcelona fails to resolve their financial issues, Olmo could find himself banned from playing for the club he has long supported. The paper elaborates, stating, “Olmo is set to be banned from playing for Barcelona — which could see him leave on a free transfer.”

Having joined the Spanish side in August for a hefty £50 million from RB Leipzig, Olmo’s registration has been mired in complications. A long-term injury to defender Andreas Christensen allowed the club to register Olmo as an emergency player, but this temporary arrangement is set to expire at the end of the year. Barcelona must act swiftly to secure Olmo’s place in the squad, or risk losing him without any financial return.

Sterling Eager to Fight for Arsenal Spot

In other news, Raheem Sterling is reportedly keen to remain at Arsenal, despite finding himself on the fringes of the first team. The *Daily Express* has revealed that the Chelsea forward, currently on loan at the Gunners, has struggled to make a significant impact since his arrival.

The report highlights that the former Manchester City star has made just 10 appearances under Mikel Arteta this season. The Gunners’ boss was excited to reunite with Sterling, having worked together at City, but the 30-year-old has seen limited action, clocking only 146 minutes in the Premier League — roughly the equivalent of just over a game-and-a-half. He has managed to score once in two Carabao Cup outings.

Despite the lack of playing time, Sterling is determined to fight for his place at the Emirates Stadium and aims to secure a spot in Arteta’s starting XI for the second half of the season.

Southampton Seek Long-Term Managerial Solution

Meanwhile, Southampton are on the lookout for a new manager, with plans to appoint someone who can lead the club back to the Premier League rather than opting for a short-term fix. Following the sacking of Russell Martin, the club is keen to find a replacement who can provide stability and a long-term vision.

*The Athletic* reports that, despite a challenging outlook for the remainder of the 2024-25 season, Southampton should not struggle to attract interest in the managerial position. The search for Martin’s successor began shortly after his dismissal, indicating that the club had no immediate plans for a replacement prior to their heavy defeat against Tottenham.

With Championship football looking increasingly likely for the 2025-26 season, the Saints are prioritising a long-term appointment. Martin’s track record of successfully guiding teams into the Premier League will undoubtedly make him a sought-after candidate for clubs in the Championship.

Wolves Set to Appoint Pereira as New Manager

In a bid to turn their fortunes around, Wolverhampton Wanderers are reportedly closing in on the appointment of Vitor Pereira as their new manager. Following the sacking of Gary O’Neil after a dismal defeat, the Portuguese coach is expected to step in and take charge.

The *Telegraph* has indicated that Pereira is flying to England to finalise his appointment, with confirmation expected within the next 24 hours. Wolves have reportedly paid an £800,000 release clause to his current club, Al Shabab in the Saudi Pro League.

Pereira will sign a contract lasting one and a half years and has been assured of funds for the upcoming January transfer window. With super-agent Jorge Mendes involved in the negotiations, a new centre-back is likely to be a priority for the club as they look to bolster their squad and avoid further struggles in the Premier League.