Nico Williams's possible arrival at FC Barcelona remains one of the most talked-about topics in the world of soccer. The forward from Pamplona, currently playing for Athletic Club, could be one of the biggest surprises of the upcoming summer transfer window. What once seemed like a distant dream is now closer than ever to becoming reality.
The pre-agreement with Barça
Barcelona already has the approval of its board, led by Joan Laporta, to sign Nico Williams. According to journalist Santi Aouna from Footmercato, the agreement between the player and the Catalan club has already been reached. The contract could be extended for six years, until 2031, with a salary of around €12 million gross per year.
This agreement is key, since the €12 million are lower than the €20 million that Nico Williams requested from Bayern, according to Sky Sports Germany. This salary reduction could have been crucial for his signing by Barça and for playing alongside Lamine Yamal.
The number 17: A nod to Barça's history
One of the details that has most caught the attention of fans is the number that Nico Williams will wear on his Barça jersey. It has been confirmed that he'll wear number 17, a symbolic number at the club, though not the most legendary.
Number 17 was previously worn by Marc Casadó, who has decided to give it to Williams so the forward can wear it with pride. Casadó will take Pablo Torre's number 14, joining those who've changed numbers in a team of stars like Barça.
An exciting project with Lamine Yamal
Nico Williams's arrival is important not only because of his quality as a footballer, but also because of the bond he'll share with Lamine Yamal. Both players are great friends, which could be a key motivational factor for the young forward. His adaptation to the team and the locker room seems like it'll be easier, given the great camaraderie both footballers have shown.
Nico Williams's signing fits within Barcelona's strategy to rejuvenate its squad and bet on young talent. Although he's not arriving as a global star, his potential and quality in the Spanish league make him a bet for the future for Barça.
The arrival is near
Although the agreement between Barça and Nico Williams isn't official yet, everything indicates that the transfer will be finalized in the coming days. Barcelona's sporting director, Hansi Flick, has also given his approval for the signing, which means this move has the green light from all angles of the club. With the Barcelona jersey and number 17, Nico Williams is preparing to join one of the biggest clubs in the world.