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**Newcastle United Eye Ambitious Move for RB Leipzig’s Dani Olmo as Howe Targets Creative Spark**
*By Luke Edwards, Northern Football Correspondent*
Newcastle United are plotting an audacious move for RB Leipzig’s attacking midfielder Dani Olmo as Eddie Howe looks to add flair and guile to his midfield in the January transfer window. The Magpies, backed by their Saudi-led ownership, are prepared to test Leipzig’s resolve with a bid in the region of £50m for the 27-year-old Spanish international, sources have told The Telegraph.
Olmo, who has been a standout performer in the Bundesliga and caught the eye during Spain’s triumphant Euro 2024 campaign, is seen as the ideal candidate to unlock defences and elevate Newcastle’s attacking output. With the club sitting comfortably in the Premier League’s top half and pushing for European qualification, Howe is keen to bolster his squad with a player capable of providing the creative spark that has occasionally been lacking this season.
The interest in Olmo comes as Newcastle continue to navigate the delicate balance of Financial Fair Play regulations while flexing their financial muscle. Sources close to the club indicate that the Public Investment Fund (PIF) is willing to sanction a significant outlay, provided the deal represents value and aligns with Howe’s vision of a dynamic, high-pressing side. Olmo, with his versatility to play as a No 10 or on either flank, fits the bill perfectly.
However, Leipzig are notoriously tough negotiators and are under no pressure to sell, with Olmo’s contract running until 2027. The German club could demand a fee closer to £60m, especially given interest from other European heavyweights, including Barcelona and Manchester City. Newcastle’s recruitment team, led by sporting director Paul Mitchell, is said to be working tirelessly to structure a deal that could tempt Leipzig into cashing in.
Howe, speaking ahead of Newcastle’s clash with Tottenham, remained tight-lipped but couldn’t resist a wry smile when asked about potential January signings. “We’re always looking at ways to improve the squad,” he said. “The market is tough, but we’re ambitious and want players who can take us to the next level.”
Newcastle’s pursuit of Olmo is not without its challenges. The player’s wage demands and the lure of Champions League football elsewhere could complicate matters. Yet, the prospect of joining a project on the rise, coupled with the passionate support of the Toon Army, may sway Olmo to consider a move to St James’ Park.
Fans will be cautiously optimistic, having seen high-profile targets slip through the net in previous windows. But with Mitchell’s expertise and Howe’s clear tactical blueprint, there’s a growing sense that Newcastle are ready to make a statement. Whether Olmo becomes the latest piece in their exciting jigsaw remains to be seen, but this is a transfer saga worth watching.
*Luke Edwards is The Telegraph’s Northern Football Correspondent. Follow him on X @LukeEdwardsTele.*
