Barça was one step away from the final. The defeat against Inter at San Siro hurt, a lot, but it left one certainty: there is a team, there is talent, but pieces are missing. One of the first to speak up has been Lamine Yamal.
The young academy player, who excelled again in the most important match of the season, did not hide. "We will bring the Champions League to Barcelona," he said. But to achieve it, he also made it clear that the club must move in the market.
A signing that can make the difference
Lamine did not openly give names, but there is unanimity in his environment. If Barça wants to make the definitive leap, it needs to add imbalance on the left wing. And the name that convinces the '27' culé the most is Nico Williams.
The Athletic Club winger has had a high-level season. His dribbling, explosiveness, and character have established him as one of LaLiga's great talents. For Yamal, he would be the perfect complement.
Sharing the wing with another vertical player capable of breaking defenses would allow Barça to gain a new offensive dimension. The connection between them can be lethal. And in the locker room, many view his arrival favorably.
Lamine is clear that Barça needs new options up front. Raphinha has delivered, but his inconsistency in big matches left doubts. Ansu Fati, meanwhile, has not managed to recover his best level.
The club values it, but doesn't act
For now, there is no open negotiation with Athletic Club from the sports management. Nico Williams's clause is still around 60 million euros, and Barça's economic situation requires careful steps.
However, after the Champions League elimination, the club has reactivated several folders. If important departures are finalized this summer, such as Araújo or some midfielder, Nico could be back in the spotlight.
Joan Laporta and Deco have heard the message. The locker room wants reinforcements, and Flick does too. The German coach believes the team needs more bench depth to face a long and demanding season.
Nico is liked for his profile and age, he is 22 years old, knows the league, and his projection continues to rise. Moreover, his environment views a change of scenery favorably if Barça formalizes the interest. In fact, the player himself would be willing to listen.
A relationship that adds up
Lamine and Nico know, understand, and admire each other. In the past, they have coincided in training camps with the National Team, and their connection was immediate. The Barça locker room needs more natural associations like this.
Yamal wants to win, wants to lead a competitive Barça. But he knows that to reach the next level, he needs teammates with whom he can share the offensive responsibility. And Nico is his chosen one.
Barça has room if it plans well. The key will be to free up salary mass and generate income with some strategic sale. If that happens, Nico Williams's signing will be more than an illusion.
Lamine has made it clear: promises are not enough, action is needed. His commitment is firm, his ambition is not hidden. Now, the ball is in the board's court.
Will Laporta listen to his most valuable jewel? The summer will be long... but Nico's name is already on the table.