Dani Olmo offers himself as Lewandowski successor at Barcelona: ‘Wouldn’t have any problem playing there’

Barcelona midfielder Dani Olmo has revealed that he would be willing to operate as a striker if required, providing insight into Hansi Flick’s Barcelona plans should the club fail to strengthen their attack this summer.

With the club continuing to pursue Julian Alvarez at Barcelona as their preferred reinforcement in the forward line, questions remain over who could eventually replace Robert Lewandowski in the long term. 

According to Olmo, however, the squad already possesses enough quality and versatility to cope if a new signing does not arrive.

Olmo open to playing as striker for Barcelona

The debate surrounding a potential Robert Lewandowski replacement has intensified in recent months, particularly with Barcelona actively exploring the transfer market.

On that note, Barcelona’s striker situation took centre stage, with the attacking midfielder admitting that he would have no concerns about featuring in a more advanced role.

Addressing the possibility of being deployed as a centre-forward, he said,

“I’ve already played in this position and I wouldn’t have any problem playing there if the manager considers it necessary. I feel comfortable there,” he said, as per Mundo Deportivo.

The latest Barcelona transfer news continues to focus heavily on the search for a new striker, but Olmo believes the club already possesses sufficient attacking options.

Olmo is ready to play as a striker for Barcelona. (Photo by Florencia Tan Jun/Getty Images)

Alongside Ferran Torres, who enjoyed an impressive goalscoring campaign last season, Olmo also highlighted the presence of new signing Anthony Gordon as another player capable of occupying the centre-forward role. 

“I also see Ferran Torres, a player who scored a lot of goals last year and will continue to do so because he’s a great player, and now we also have [Anthony] Gordon, who I understand can also play in this position. 

“So we have enough players to cover it, and if others arrive, they’ll be welcome to add to the squad.”

World Cup focus

Olmo also looked beyond club football and discussed the players he would choose for Barcelona from Spain and the World Cup.

The midfielder named Arsenal midfielder Martin Zubimendi as the Spanish player he would like to see at Camp Nou, while selecting Lionel Messi from the international tournament.

“Messi is no surprise – he’s incredible, and we’re delighted he’s on the other side of the draw.”

Turning his attention towards Portugal, Olmo reserved praise for Nuno Mendes and his expected duel with Lamine Yamal.

Olmo has nothing but praise for Nuno Mendes. (Photo by Florencia Tan Jun/Getty Images)

“Nuno Mendes. He’s a great full-back, very physical; he’s a good match for Lamine, but that also really motivates Lamine. 

“He’s very mentally strong. He’s focused on doing what he has to do on the pitch; he’s already at 100 per cent and we’re delighted that he’s in that form.”

Olmo’s confident message ahead of another Clasico

The Barcelona midfielder also addressed the growing rivalry with Real Madrid ahead of another season expected to feature several high-profile Clásicos.

Discussing Real Madrid’s recent stance surrounding the Negreira case and Jose Mourinho’s return, Olmo made it clear that Barcelona remain focused solely on continuing their winning cycle.

“It’s only natural that they want to stir things up in some way. 

“We’ve won plenty of titles over the last two years, dominating La Liga, the Copa del Rey and the Supercopa, and it’s only natural that they want to unsettle us.

“But we’re focused on our own business and on continuing to win. They’re looking to improve, but we improve every year too,” he concluded.