Joan Laporta doesn't want to waste time and has already started planning next season. Being in constant contact with Hansi Flick and Deco, The president is clear that a key reinforcement is needed in the wing position. There is a need for overrunning and solutions when the game gets complicated. Despite what happened last summer, Laporta's plan is to pay Nico Williams's release clause next summer.
Journalist José Álvarez, who has a close connection to the Barça board, revealed this on El Chiringuito: "Barça is already starting to work on the next summer market. They are going to make a big transfer, which is what Laporta wants."
He added: "The striker position is out of the question right now. Lewandowski is going to renew his contract and they won't sign anyone who could overshadow him. The left-back position is also to be strengthened. Then there are positions in which they'll wait to see what happens."
"Analyzing the games, they've realized that something is missing: That is where they want to make the biggest investment. I am talking about the winger position. There are several options, they were explored in the summer. But at Barça it's clear that the priority will be Nico Williams, and the feeling is that everything is on track to sign him," said José Álvarez.
Finally, he concluded: "There was a bit of anger when everything broke down, but they tell me that the issue is being addressed. And Nico is willing to listen. We're in November now, but I see Nico Williams playing for Barça next season."
Nico Williams: Laporta Sets His Transfer in Motion for 58 Million
Despite everything that happened during the summer, Laporta is clear that Nico Williams is the right man to reinforce Barça's attack. He has the proper age, characteristics, projection and—if that were not enough—a good relationship with Lamine Yamal both on and off the field. The conditions are already being discussed and his price hasn't changed at all. 58 million euros is what his termination clause with Athletic sets.
Nico Williams wanted to stay in Bilbao with the intention of playing in the Europa League finals at San Mamés. He has the chance to do so but he knows that, if he doesn't want to remain stuck, he has to leave. Laporta is offering him that chance. We've already seen what this Barça is capable of with Hansi Flick and nobody has any doubts.
Last summer was a difficult one due to Barcelona's delicate financial situation, but everything will change next year. With the new contract with Nike in force, the arrival of Nico Williams is expected to be easier.