There are several areas of the team that FC Barcelona are looking to strengthen in the upcoming summer transfer window, with the highest priority attached to the midfield pivot position.
In addition to addressing this weakness in the squad, Barcelona will also be keen on bolstering their attacking options. The left-wing position stands out as a key area for reinforcement, given the team’s strength in the center and on the right flank.
For this position, one of the players that Barcelona have been linked closely with in the past is the Athletic Club winger, Nico Williams. The player has recently renewed his contract with the Basque club, but, according to SPORT, Barcelona understand that the player would like to wear the Blaugrana colors, and are still in contact with his entourage.
What keeps the Catalans hopeful of getting the player is the €50 million release clause in his Athletic Club contract, which means a move for him cannot be ruled out. In fact, Laporta believes getting Nico at such a price would be very good business for any club that has the funds available, something that is not the case at Barcelona.
Thus, if the Blaugranes are to sign him, they will have to undertake a lot of work to raise the required funds, which can come through sales or sponsorship agreements. Returning to the 1:1 rule will be fundamental for Barcelona to undertake such an operation.
Regarding the player himself, the Catalans understand that he will not force a move away from Athletic Club as he is happy in Bilbao, but his friendship with several Barcelona youngsters, including Alejandro Balde, Pau Cubarsi, and Lamine Yamal, can entice him to come to Catalonia.
Therefore, Barcelona may pursue him this summer., but if they are unable to meet the financial requirements for this purpose, they will try to retain Joao Felix on another loan, while other low-cost loan options like Bryan Zaragoza are also on the table.
