Barcelona Shifts Strategy on Nico Williams Deal; Raphinha Responds on Social Media
Barcelona have revived their interest in Athletic Club's Nico Williams after encountering obstacles in their pursuit of Liverpool star Luis Díaz, according to recent reports.
It's well-known that Hansi Flick is eager to add a new winger to his squad this summer, with efforts previously concentrated on Díaz, who reportedly favors a move to Barcelona. However, Liverpool remains firm on their valuation of approximately €80 million (£68.1 million, $92.5 million), a figure deemed excessive by the Spanish champions.
The club's focus on Díaz emerged after president Joan Laporta publicly dismissed interest in Williams earlier this summer, but Bayern Munich's approach prompted Barcelona officials to meet with Williams's representative.
Sources indicate Williams has expressed a strong preference for joining Barcelona despite attention from Bayern, Arsenal and Chelsea—with The Athletic noting that the English clubs have recently reduced their interest—and Spanish media outlet Mundo Deportivo was among those confirming that the Catalan giants have officially renewed their pursuit of the Spanish winger.
Fabrizio Romano reports that Barcelona are planning additional discussions with Athletic Club to clarify the details of Williams's release clause. While Romano suggests the clause stands at €58 million (£49.4 million, $67.1 million), other sources place it closer to €62 million (£52.8 million, $71.7 million).
Williams's close friend Lamine Yamal hinted at a potential transfer on social media when news of the recent meeting first surfaced, and additional Barcelona players have since shown similar indications. Left back Alejandro Balde liked an Instagram post identifying Barcelona as frontrunners to acquire Williams, who subsequently received a follow on the platform from teammate Raphinha.
Securing Williams would likely terminate Barcelona's pursuit of Díaz. Reports emphasize that sporting director Deco remains an admirer of the Liverpool attacker, whose potential move to Barcelona hasn't been completely dismissed, but Liverpool's unwillingness to negotiate has elevated Williams to the primary target.
Manchester United's Marcus Rashford is also being considered as an alternative option. The England forward is reportedly prioritizing Barcelona's interest and is currently training in Marbella while awaiting their final transfer decision.