Barça is still digesting the painful elimination against Inter Milan. A cruel defeat in extra time that leaves the team out of the Champions League final and forces reflection. The reaction in the offices hasn't been long in coming.
The conclusion is clear: besides strengthening the defense, solutions must be sought in attack. Lamine Yamal has been Barça's great offensive leader in Europe, but he can't be alone. Hansi Flick has asked for more resources on the attacking front.
A Desired Profile for a Long Time
The sports management has activated a plan that was already on the table, but is now accelerating. The priority is to add a destabilizing winger, who brings speed, goals, and the ability to break through. In that profile, there's only one name that fits 100%.
Barça believes the time has come to go all in. The emotional response of the team at San Siro, despite the elimination, has convinced more than one. That someone hasn't hesitated to make a move.
Within the club, they acknowledge that, after what happened in Italy, the plan has been reactivated. Joan Laporta has already given the green light to prepare a new offensive. The operation is complex, but the player's willingness is now more favorable than ever.
The player's entourage has seen up close what this Barça can build. The team's reaction against Inter has impressed, and there's a general feeling: this project is serious. That has changed many things.
The Name Everyone Knows: Nico Williams
The target is Nico Williams. The Athletic Club winger is once again a priority for Barça. This time, the interest goes far beyond rumors: there are concrete moves.
Flick believes his fit with Lamine Yamal would be ideal. A complementary profile, with power and imbalance, capable of opening closed defenses and creating spaces. The German coach has already given his full approval.
From Bilbao, they assure that Nico is open to leaving this summer. His performance has been excellent, and he feels it's the right time to take a step forward. The Premier League has tempted him, but he prefers to stay in La Liga.
After seeing Barça fight until the last breath in Europe, his interest has grown. He wants to compete for major titles and be part of an ambitious project. Barça, with Lamine, Pedri, and company, offers him that and more.
Laporta Moves, Deco Takes the Lead
The club is already studying ways to tackle the operation. The release clause is around 58 million euros, but Barça is expected to attempt a negotiation. It could include players or installment payments.
Deco has resumed contacts with the player's entourage. There is willingness on both sides, and everything points to an intense summer. At Camp Nou, they want to close this operation soon to avoid auctions or last-minute moves from other clubs.
The idea of pairing Lamine Yamal with Nico Williams excites the coaching staff. Two talented, unbalancing, and young wingers. Two players capable of breaking games on their own.
The defeat against Inter has hurt, but it has also set the path. Barça no longer doubts: the attack must be strengthened, and Nico Williams is the chosen man. The next attempt will be the definitive one.