“Best signing Barcelona has made in decades” - Ex-Real Madrid coach Jorge Valdano suggests 26-year-old is better signing than Neymar and Suarez

Former Real Madrid manager Jorge Valdano believes Dani Olmo is Barcelona's best signing in 'decades'. Notably, the Blaugrana signed Neymar and Luis Suarez in 2013 and 2014, respectively, who are widely believed to be two of their best signings in recent history.

Along with praising Olmo, Valdano also commended Lamine Yamal's rapid rise to become Barcelona's most important player. However, he added the Catalan side do not miss the teenager, who is out with an ankle injury, because of Olmo. He told Mundo Deportivo:

“The absence of Lamine Yamal causes a chain of consequences, for example, dropping Olmo to the wing. Dani Olmo can play wherever he wants. He can play as a centre forward, on the right, on the left, but when he plays as a playmaker he gives the team a fluidity that is extraordinary. He is the best signing that Barca has made in decades, he is a truly extraordinary player, but, conveniently, he influences the most important area of the pitch and the absence of Yamal condemns him to a secondary place, even though it is a starting point for him."

Barcelona signed Dani Olmo from RB Leipzig for a reported €60 million this summer. The Spaniard has scored five goals in seven LaLiga matches so far but is yet to open his account in his UEFA Champions League.

Dani Olmo explains why he picked Barcelona

Dani Olmo claimed in September this year that he picked Barcelona because of manager Hansi Flick. The Spaniard stated that he was lured by the tactician's plans for the club. He told RAC1:

“He has played a key role. The position where he sees me and where I have been playing at Leipzig and with Spain, the connection with players like Pedri or Lamine ... Everything makes it much easier and that is why my adaptation has been so fast. He is very clear about what he asks of me and I always try to give my best.”

Barcelona were reportedly interested in signing Nico Williams from Athletic Bilbao as well but failed to agree on personal terms. The Spaniard was also said to be a target for Manchester City, Paris Saint-Germain and Chelsea.