Using a 24' solar reel on a 28' round pool

I'm looking for opinions- I am trying to get a pool up as "budget friendly" as possible - good luck with that; right!

I am able to get a 24' solar cover AND reel for $75. I have a 28' round doughboy pool I bought off craigslist

So here is my thought.

OPTION 1.
I would mount the solar reel off-center where the pool width is 24' across. And use a solar cover 2' short from the edge all around.

OR

OPTION 2.
I could us the 24' reel, and get a 28' cover. Mount it where the pool is 24' across and when reeling it up, jut tuck it in in each side when reeling it up(or let it overhang 2' on each side of the reel.)

OPTION 3.
Cut the solar reel rod in the middle and extend it with overlapping screwed in PVC pipe to 28'

OPTION 4.
Stop being cheap and drop $500+ for a new 28' reel and solar cover.

I would prefer options 1-3, but what are your thoughts.
Sound like an affordable solution that would save be quite a few hundred dollars, or a waste of $75?

This is my first post, I am sure I will have many more coming up after the pool is installed!