FC Barcelona have reignited their interest in Athletic Bilbao star Nico Williams, with sporting director Deco recently meeting the player’s agent in a move which indicates another saga in the making. Nico Williams is the target of many European teams including Bayern and Arsenal, but the Spanish winger prefers a move to Barcelona.
Transfer Momentum Once Again
Other clubs in the race are aware of Nico’s preference for Barcelona, and Nico is also willing to take a pay cut. This means the ball is in Barcelona’s court and their action is pending. Last season, Barcelona were behind the youngster but he didn’t consider the move. Laporta removed Nico from the transfer list. This time Nico is the one who wants a move. Let’s examine how Nico’s transfer can impact Barcelona’s attacking dynamics.
Reports from multiple sources have confirmed Deco’s meeting with the player’s representatives. This move took greater momentum when Lamine Yamal posted an Instagram story featuring the two players in Spain kits.
Another transfer target Barcelona had was Luis Diaz, but this move is completely ruled out because of high price demands and financial restrictions at Barcelona. Nico is a more feasible option due to his interest and lower financial demands.
How Nico Enhances Barça’s Attack?
Barcelona this season were seen relying on Raphinha and Lamine Yamal for width. This was a worrying thing because Raphinha was playing on the wrong side of the field, he was responsible for going wide and cutting inside. On the other hand, Lamine being young had to take care of offensive and defensive which can hinder his growth at this age. Barcelona’s season was great, but one problem was squad depth.
Nico can be ideal for rotation for Raphinha which can help Raphinha to conserve energy and rest in games against easier opponents. Playing Nico on the left and Lamine on the right can give Barça one of the fastest and most unpredictable winger duos in Europe. Both youngsters share a special chemistry in the national team which could be translated to club football.
With Nico’s addition, Barcelona can line up in the following ways: LW: Nico Williams, Lewandowski, Lamine Yamal, and Raphinha. In this setup, Raphinha can play in the CAM role allowing him to play as a shadow-striker behind Lewandowski. Another setup could be Nico Williams, Raphinha, and Lamine Yamal.
This sort of depth allows rest cycles, with Nico starting midweek games or subbing in at 60 minutes, helping Flick with flexibility.
Financial Edge
With Luis Diaz being valued at €80M+, Nico’s transfer becomes much more feasible. Barcelona’s current economic strategy is toward cost-effective young reinforcements which could help the club in the future. Nico being just 22, fits Barcelona’s model perfectly as he has La Liga experience, he is a Spanish international, and has great relations with many Barcelona players.
I believe Barcelona’s rekindled interest in Nico Williams is strategic. Laporta should keep his ego aside after last year and should go for this transfer. We have witnessed some players having second thoughts about Barcelona and regretting it. Nico has another chance and now it’s Barcelona’s decision how they pull this move out.
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