After several seasons of doubts and sports instability, Barça has regained its power and influence in the transfer market. The arrival of Hansi Flick has transformed the discourse at the Catalan club: offensive play, prominence for young players, and above all, titles. The national treble won this season has been a clear sign that Barça is back.
This hasn't gone unnoticed by several important players, especially those who last summer would have refused to join FC Barcelona. One of them is Nico Williams, who prioritized staying at Athletic Club and now finds himself in a completely different situation. Established as one of the most unbalancing wingers, his future has once again become one of the focuses of the summer market.
Nico makes a decision
Despite receiving a very attractive offer from Mikel Arteta's Arsenal, Nico Williams has decided to halt any negotiations against all odds. The reason is clear: he wants to wait for Barça of Lamine Yamal and trusts the Catalan club will make a move, so he is willing to give it absolute priority. The Flick factor has been decisive, but his relationships with some Barça teammates both on and off the field also influence.
Therefore, Nico Williams has decided to postpone decisions that could already be closed and the player's entourage has conveyed this stance to the London club. It's no wonder: Arsenal had come forward with a serious proposal both economically and sportingly, but Nico is clear that he wants to wear the blaugrana. His style would fit perfectly in the offensive culé system, and he sees a real opportunity to establish himself in Barça's scheme.
A manageable clause, but with obstacles
From a contractual point of view, the operation is viable. His release clause is around 58 million euros, a reasonable figure for a young player in full growth. However, Barça still needs to maneuver carefully: the financial situation is fragile and any investment of this magnitude requires generating income with certain significant departures.
Athletic, meanwhile, is trying to retain him with a possible renewal, but already assumes that his departure is a matter of time. Nico wants to compete for titles and take a leap in his career. As of today, he feels that leap goes through Barcelona.