Nico Williams's name has been in FC Barcelona's orbit for months. His dribbling, youth, and potential perfectly matched what the club was looking for to strengthen the wings. Since last season, his profile caused excitement among the fans and was one of the most desired signings by the Barça environment.
However, in the last few hours, everything has taken an unexpected turn. While the team fights for a possible historic treble in this final stretch of the season, the sports management has already begun to make key decisions for the next season. One of them is specifically linked to Nico Williams's future, whose relationship with FC Barcelona seems to have reached a decisive point.
Change of Plans in the Roadmap
According to Mundo Deportivo, Barça has decided not to pay the 60 million euro release clause demanded by Athletic Club for their star player. They believe the time to go for him was last summer, and now, with other priorities and a delicate economic situation, the bet has completely cooled down. The club believes they already have players who can fill that position: Lamine Yamal, Raphinha, Ferran, and even alternatives like Dani Olmo or Fermín.
The decision is part of a broader strategy. The Barça board understands that they must prioritize reinforcements in other areas of the field, and with an attack full of options, they prefer to focus their resources on more urgent positions. Nico, at least for now, is out of the project.
Other Options Discarded
Another key in this new roadmap is that the club also doesn't plan to sign a center forward. Lewandowski's good season, combined with Ferran Torres's good performance in that position, has convinced Flick and the management. The Pole, with 40 goals in the season, remains the offensive reference, and they don't see the need to seek direct competition for him.
That's why the focus is on other areas of the field. The idea is to incorporate a midfielder with attacking capabilities and a versatile defender, capable of adapting as a center-back or right-back. All this could change if there are unexpected departures in the summer, but the plan, at least for now, is clear and defined.