Athletic Club and Spain winger Nico Williams remains on top of the target list of FC Barcelona as potential signings for the upcoming summer transfer window.
The Blaugrana already tried to sign the 22-year-old attacker last summer, with club president Joan Laporta pushing for a deal.
However, with Barcelona manager Hansi Flick and sporting director Deco leaning towards Dani Olmo, and the club lacking the financial ability to sign both, the winger stayed put at Athletic.
Heading into the summer, though, Barça still remain keen on Nico. Flick is understood to have given his approval for a transfer.
Nico William Wants Future sorted by July 15
Now, according to SPORT, Nico Williams is keen to avoid the drawn-out saga similar to what ensued last summer.
The Athletic Club winger’s aim is to have his future resolved by the start of pre-season. Both he and Barcelona are eager to avoid another transfer saga. As such, the firm deadline for a final decision has been set for 15 July.
Nico’s release clause remains just over €62 million, a sum that Barcelona can afford to pay. However, the main obstacle lies in the club’s wage bill limitations, which continue to restrict their operational flexibility.
FC Barcelona Want A New Winger
FC Barcelona remain keen on strengthening the left flank before next season, with Nico being one of the main targets.
The need for such a player could further be exacerbated. As recent reports suggested, FC Barcelona could open the doors for Raphinha’s exit in the summer should offers of around €80-90 million arrive.
In any case, the pursuit of Nico is not seen as incompatible with Raphinha staying put at the club. But with the player setting a deadline of July 15 to sort things out, FC Barcelona cannot allow the matter to drag out like last summer. They must look to secure the deal at the earliest.
