Barça are working intensively to finalize the signing of Nico Williams this week. The blaugrana club intends to pay the €58 million (58 million euros) corresponding to his release clause, and the plan is to execute that payment starting July 1.
His arrival would provide the team with imbalance, verticality, and depth on the wing. The player has already given the green light to the project, and the agreement with his camp is practically closed. The only thing left is to activate the clause and solve the bureaucratic procedures, which makes this operation a matter of days.
A left back on the agenda
After finalizing the signings of Nico Williams and Joan García, the next step in the market will be to strengthen the left back position. Currently, Alejandro Balde is the undisputed starter in that position, but Gerard Martín still raises doubts. Although he has performed reliably, the club believes he is still a "raw" player to take on an important role.
For that reason, the technical department is already working on finding a more experienced left back who can compete with Balde. The idea is to keep a short squad, but with real alternatives in every position.
Grimaldo, the alternative
In this regard, the name that has gained the most traction in recent weeks is Alejandro Grimaldo. The former Barça youth player has had a great season at Leverkusen and would be willing to leave the German club to return home. According to club sources, his departure could be finalized for a figure between €15 and €20 million (15 and 20 million euros), a reasonable investment.
The only drawback is the serious interest from several European teams in acquiring his services. The list includes Bayern Munich, Liverpool, and even PSG. All of them have greater financial capacity than Barça.
Moreover, Grimaldo fits the profile Barça are looking for, with experience at the top level, training at home, and offensive ability. His understanding of possession play, tactical reliability, and good ball striking make him an attractive option to strengthen the defense. If space is freed up in the wage bill, his signing could be finalized quickly.
Hansi Flick prefers La Masia
However, according to El Nacional, Flick has another idea in mind. The German coach is in favor of betting on the youth academy and doesn't rule out keeping Gerard Martín as Balde's alternative. Furthermore, Flick is reportedly following Jofre Torrents very closely.
Torrents is a modern player, with range, good technique, and tactical awareness. Although he hasn't debuted with the first team yet, the club believes he could do so in the short term if given continuity. Flick trusts his ability to adapt and would be willing to integrate him into the first team's dynamics starting in preseason.