FC Barcelona is getting closer and closer to making Nico Williams official. The Athletic Club winger has already given his resounding yes to Hansi Flick's project. The personal agreement is closed and only one key detail remains.
He will sign for six seasons with an increasing salary and agreed-upon performance clauses. Everything is ready, but he can't be registered yet. In order to comply with financial fair play, a major sale is needed.
Nico Williams playing with Athletic Club | Athletic Club
The name that appears on the exit ramp
Although many people expected other departures, Barça has decided to put Ronald Araújo on the market. His sale could be the key to finalizing Nico's signing. Nobody saw it coming, but the context demands it.
Araújo, who until recently was untouchable, no longer has that status. Flick doesn't consider him essential in his new system. The situation has changed radically in just a few weeks.
Ronald Araujo during a training session | @FCBarcelona
The Uruguayan center-back has had a season well below what was desired. He has only played 25 official matches with several key mistakes. That has caused criticism and questions about his performance.
Internally, he is no longer seen as indispensable for the future. His physical profile doesn't quite fit Flick's idea. That's why his name has come up in sporting meetings.
Ronald Araujo during a training session with Barça | @FCBarcelona
A strategic sale
Barça needs to urgently free up wage mass. The sale of Ronald Araújo would allow them to pay Nico Williams's release clause. It's €62 million ($62 million) that must be covered soon.
In addition, the Uruguayan's departure would open up space to sign and restructure the defense. Joan Laporta and Deco believe it's the most rational move. Although unpopular, it's necessary.
Araujo and Raphinha during a training session | @FCBarcelona
The Navarrese winger already has everything agreed with the club. He has rejected other offers to sign for Barça. But he won't be registered until there is room in the wage bill.
Nico wants to play at Camp Nou as soon as possible. He is willing to wait, but not indefinitely. That's why the Araújo operation becomes even more urgent.
Ronald Araujo is going through a difficult time | @FCBarcelona
Flick has already given the green light
The German coach has communicated that he can do without the Uruguayan. He prefers to work with center-backs like Christensen, Cubarsí, and Eric García. Players who are more adaptable to his play style.
This reinforces the decision to move forward with his departure. The sporting planning wouldn't suffer excessively. It would allow Nico's arrival to be unlocked.
Ronald Araujo during a training session | @FCBarcelona
Araújo has a good reputation in Europe, and several teams have inquired about him. One has taken the definitive step to sign him. Negotiations are very advanced.
In the locker room, it is already sensed that his departure is imminent. Flick and Deco are working on alternatives. Everything seems ready to announce the farewell.
The club that has bet the most on Ronald Araújo is Juventus. They are offering close to €65 million ($65 million) for his transfer. An amount that Barça can't refuse.
With this income, Nico Williams will be registered without further delay. Barça's defense will enter a new era. An unexpected farewell, but key for the future.
