FC Barcelona is preparing for a major sale that could unlock one of the most desired moves. For months, the sporting management has been working on adjusting the wage bill to be able to make new signings. One of the names singled out is a veteran who, despite his historical importance, is no longer part of the priority plans.
Internally, it is considered that his performance has been inconsistent in recent times and his salary is too high. Although he has been a pillar for years, the board understands that it is time to make bold decisions. That includes listening to offers for a figure with a valid contract, but without a guaranteed role.
Nico Williams playing with Athletic Club | Athletic Club
Nico Williams's condition
Meanwhile, Barça has intensified their efforts to finalize the signing of a winger with speed and the ability to unbalance. Nico Williams is the preferred option for the blaugrana leadership, but his signing won't be easy. The Athletic Club player has already made his position clear: he will only accept if there are guarantees of immediate registration.
For this, it is necessary to free up wage bill space with a move that leaves enough financial room in the first team. Nico doesn't want to join a club where his administrative situation is hanging in the air. That's why he has made his signing conditional on a major departure that eases Barça's finances.
Nico Williams with Athletic | @athleticclub
The player singled out by the board has one of the highest salaries in the current squad. His status as a veteran has allowed him to stay at the club, but the new sporting demands have pushed him aside. Hansi Flick has opted for other, younger profiles who fit better into his playing model.
The German coach doesn't plan to use him as an undisputed starter next season. Although his experience is undeniable, his impact has decreased and that has been evident during the past year. In fact, he is no longer considered essential by the coaching staff.
Nico Williams with the national team | @nicolas_williams9
A market awaiting his future
Clubs from all over Europe have shown interest in acquiring his services if his departure is finally confirmed. Some teams from the Premier League and Bundesliga have inquired about his contractual situation. Even from Saudi Arabia there have been economic proposals that are hard to refuse.
However, the player's entourage hasn't taken the final step yet. They know his cycle may be close to ending, but they also believe he still has the level. Everything will depend on Barça's willingness to facilitate a friendly and beneficial exit for both parties.
Nico Williams wearing Athletic Club's jersey | @nicolas_williams9
Meanwhile, Nico Williams is waiting in Bilbao, hoping that Barça will confirm the viability of his signing. His entourage is calm, but they don't want any more delays. If the situation isn't unlocked in the coming weeks, they will listen to other proposals.
Laporta and Deco are clear that the deal can only be closed if a major sale takes place. The Spanish winger is the future bet of the blaugrana project, but they won't take any risks. That bet is conditioned by the departure of a historic player.
The generational change is underway
This situation represents a turning point in FC Barcelona's rebuilding process. The club wants to rejuvenate the squad and bet on fresher profiles, with projection and commitment. Keeping high salaries for players without a key role puts that long-term planning at risk.
That's why Barça has already made a firm decision: they will open the door to his departure if a good offer arrives. With that, they will be able to carry out strategic moves like Nico Williams's, who is getting closer to Camp Nou.
Ter Stegen | @FCBarcelona
The player that Barça has decided to put on the market is Marc-André ter Stegen. His track record and legacy are undeniable, but the club needs to free up resources. If his departure is confirmed, Nico Williams could be his symbolic replacement in a new blaugrana era.
