The transfer market is heating up at Can Barça, with one of the most talked-about names in recent hours: Nico Williams. The young Athletic winger has been on Barça's radar for some time and has made his desire clear: to sign for Barça this summer. However, the club's sporting management has other priorities.
Nico Williams's desire
According to journalist José Álvarez from El Chiringuito de Jugones, Nico Williams has expressed his willingness to join Barça. The footballer, just 21 years old, has excelled in the latest LaLiga season, establishing himself as one of Athletic's most important figures.
His dribbling ability and goal-scoring instinct have attracted attention in Barcelona. In addition, his release clause, close to €50 million, is relatively accessible if the club manages to reduce its wage bill and generate income from player sales.
The Basque winger represents a bet for the future, and his youth fits with the renewal philosophy Barça is seeking. His signing won't be easy, since other clubs are also interested, which could increase the competition.
The alternative: Luis Díaz
Meanwhile, FC Barcelona has Luis Díaz, the Colombian winger who plays for Liverpool, on its radar. At 28 years old, Díaz is a player with extensive international experience. He has shown his quality in the Premier League and in European competitions, being a key piece both at Liverpool and for the Colombian national team.
His experience and tactical maturity give him an advantage over Nico Williams, especially because Barça's coaching staff see him as a more immediate option to strengthen the attack.
However, Díaz's signing presents significant challenges. His transfer fee would be considerably higher than Nico's, and the negotiation could be more complex.
Added to this is the uncertainty about whether Liverpool would be willing to let him go, and under what conditions. In any case, his ability to perform under pressure makes him a top target for Xavi and his coaching staff.
The future of the operation
The final decision will depend on Barça's financial margin, the players' willingness, and the progress of negotiations. Although Nico Williams has already expressed his desire to join Barça, the entry of other clubs into the race for his signing could complicate matters.
Barça must choose between Williams or Luis Díaz, with a more complex negotiation and a higher price.
In the coming days, key moves are expected in the market that could define Barça's immediate attacking future. Meanwhile, the Barça fans are closely following all developments, knowing that the transfer market promises strong emotions.