At FC Barcelona, they know this summer will be key to defining the direction of Hansi Flick's project. The German coach has been clear with his requests, and the sporting management, led by Deco, is already working on several fronts to strengthen the team. However, before discussing arrivals, there is a condition that has become the core of everything: a major sale.
Nico Williams, the priority target
One of the most sought-after names to strengthen the attack is Nico Williams. The Athletic Club winger is one of Joan Laporta's priorities, who wants to add him to a young and competitive squad. But Nico himself has been blunt: he'll only sign if Barça frees up salary space with a significant sale.
According to sources close to the negotiation, Nico and his camp consider it essential that the culé club avoids any risk related to financial fair play. They don't want to repeat past situations in which players couldn't be registered or saw their prominence threatened by administrative problems.
That's why they've sent a clear message: they won't give their final approval until a significant departure takes place. Nico wants to arrive with guarantees, without surprises, and knowing he'll be an important piece from day one. He doesn't want to be part of an institutional mess.
The sale that could facilitate his arrival
In Barça's offices, several names are already being considered as candidates to leave, and one of them has been especially singled out. Despite his undeniable quality, his continuity raises doubts. Injuries, inconsistency, and performance below expectations have opened the door to his transfer.
Flick has counted on him in several phases of the season, but his contributions have been sporadic. In total, he has played 36 official matches and has been involved in 16 goals between goals and assists. These numbers, while not bad, don't justify his cost or his desired impact.
Joan Laporta continues to bet on a sports model based on young talent and total commitment. He doesn't want players who are at 70% or who depend on their physical condition to perform. That's why he has given the green light to his departure if an offer of at least €70 million arrives.
That amount would ease the accounts and, above all, would allow the signing of Nico Williams to be tackled without surprises. It would be a perfect operation: salary mass is freed up, a considerable income is obtained, and the door is opened to one of the most promising wingers in Europe.
Interest from Germany
Among the possible destinations, one club stands out above the rest. Bayer Leverkusen has shown interest and is looking for a reliable replacement for Florian Wirtz. The footballer in question knows the German league well, and his style would fit the offensive approach.
Although he doesn't want to leave Barça, he understands his future is no longer in his hands. The board has been clear: if a suitable proposal arrives, it will be analyzed without hesitation. It's the price to pay to keep the club's sustainability and continue building an ambitious project.
Finally, the player who could leave Barça and facilitate Nico Williams's arrival is Dani Olmo. The Catalan striker, a star signing not long ago, hasn't managed to establish himself as expected. Now, his sale could be the key that opens the door to the new culé signing.