Reports: Leipzig finalize Olmo deal, Cherki targeted as replacement
German footballing journalist Philipp Hinze claims that the German Red Bulls have a preferred replacement lined up.
After club and player agreed to terms some five days ago, a blockbuster deal to send Dani Olmo to Spanish giants FC Barcelona is set to be confirmed shortly. Italian transfer guru Fabrizio Romano reports that the German Red Bulls have ironed out the details of the transfer. Leipzig shall receive a base-transfer-fee of some €55 million. A further €7 million will flow into the RB coffers if certain performance-based incentives are met.
With regard to the attacking midfield situation in Saxony, Leipzig themselves were able to score a major coup yesterday by securing the services of Dutch star Xavi Simons for another year. German footballing journalist Philipp Hinze of Sky Sports nevertheless reports that the East Germans do wish to bring in another player to replace Olmo. Hinze claims that French Olympic representative Rayan Cherki is in the club's sights.
Cherki appeared set to move to Dortmund, but a transfer fell through despite the player's desire to join BVB. Hinze reports that initial talks with the Marseille professional have already taken place. The 20-year-old maintains an estimated market worth of €25 million in the latest transfermarkt listings. Leipzig are reportedly willing to spend around €15-20 million to acquire him.