FC Barcelona keeps setting the pace in the transfer market, although its delicate financial situation limits many moves. The sporting management led by Deco is clear about the names that fit the project, and one of them has been on Barça's radar for some time. He excites many fans, a young, fast, and unbalancing player who has conquered LaLiga and who, for many, would be the icing on Hansi Flick's attack.
The player hasn't taken the next step and has let his current club know he feels appreciated. On more than one occasion, he has raised doubts about his immediate future. That stance hasn't gone over well in the offices at Camp Nou, where they believe that a club of Barça's magnitude shouldn't be disrespected. The warning has been clearly direct, and the player is already starting to reconsider that he must make a gesture toward them.
Deco, who works quietly but firmly, has already sent the clearest possible message to his inner circle: "Apologize, it's the best advice I can give you. Either you do it, or you'll never again have the chance to play for Barça." A harsh statement, but one that reflects the demands of the blaugrana club for those on its agenda, Nico Williams already knows it.
Nico stands Laporta up
Barcelonism doesn't forget, neither do Barça fans, every transfer window the same name comes up, generating excitement and debate on social media. The insistence from the supporters is so great that some current squad members have already dropped subtle hints. Lamine Yamal, the great jewel of the academy, is said to have hinted that he'd love to have him as a teammate.
Barça believes that signing him would have an immediate impact on the field and also in the media. His profile fits the sporting policy: youth, speed, dribbling, and the projection of a world star. However, the club isn't willing to accept snubs; anyone who wants to play at Camp Nou must show it with actions, not just words.
Lamine doesn't forgive him
The situation is reminiscent of other episodes from the past, footballers who had the chance to wear the blaugrana jersey and let it slip away out of pride. History has shown that there is rarely a second chance, and that's where Deco's warning makes even more sense. Nico Williams already knows it and must think about his future; otherwise, Barça won't come knocking on his door again.
Athletic Club, meanwhile, is breathing easy. Its star is comfortable in Bilbao and has a contract that protects him. However, in soccer, everything can change from one day to the next. The temptation to make the leap to a big club is always present, and Barça knows it better than anyone