Barça dreamed of Nico Williams, the fans wanted to see him at Camp Nou, and the club trusted he would stay. But things have changed quickly. Plan "A" for Joan Laporta with Nico hasn't worked out and "plan B", which was another young prospect, hasn't either.
Nico Williams said no
Nico Williams had the opportunity, he received Barça's offer, but he turned it down. The answer was clear: he doesn't want to come, patience has run out. Barça and the fans are no longer waiting for him, the train has passed for him.
This rejection has been a hard blow, but the blaugrana club knows when to stop. They won't insist on Nico anymore, now the focus is on other young talents. However, the next one on the list also won't stay at Barça.
Jan Virgili, the alternative who's going to Almería
Jan Virgili, another homegrown youngster, seemed like the perfect alternative. He's a local talent with a bright future. He trained with Barça Atlètic under the watchful eye of Juliano Belletti and even took part in preseason with the first team.
But Jan is also looking for minutes and growth. He has offers on the table and the call from Jagoba Arrasate, Almería's coach, is very appealing. Almería has made him a clear and attractive proposal.
The battle with Mallorca and Almería's offer
Mallorca also want Virgili, the vermilion sporting management showed interest. However, the price Barça is asking is high. They want to keep a 50% stake in his rights and a buy-back option.
Mallorca aren't willing to pay more than €2 million for that half and Barça is asking for €4 million for that 50%. For now, there's no agreement. The two clubs are at a standstill.
Meanwhile, Almería has been more concrete. They're offering €3 million for 50% of the rights and a six-season contract. Rubi, the coach who's also from Vilassar, has gotten personally involved, the Andalusian club has money and a lot of excitement about Jan.
Meteoric growth that draws attention
Jan Virgili had an impressive year, he arrived last summer from Nàstic de Tarragona's youth team. He was key to winning the Youth League and the youth treble. His performance in the U-19 European Championship cemented his status.
Although it was desired that he would travel with the first team on the Asian tour, Flick ultimately decided he should return to the reserves. Barça believes in his talent and wants to protect him. That's why they don't accept a departure without clear conditions.