Barcelona is finalizing details to make official one of the major signings of the summer: Nico Williams. The Athletic Club winger has already given his "yes" to the blaugrana side, which plans to pay his release clause in July. All of this is intended so that the operation is recorded in the next financial year (ejercicio económico).
This is a move that generates excitement, but also reshapes the attacking landscape of the first team. Hansi Flick has a very clear idea of the team he wants to build: a short squad, defined profiles, and maximum competitiveness for each position. With Nico and Lamine Yamal as the main wingers, and Lewandowski as the "9," the rest of the strikers will have to adapt to secondary roles.
In this regard, everything seems to indicate that Ferran Torres will be one of the most affected.
Relegated to the bench?
Flick has asked to reduce the number of strikers and prioritize quality over quantity. In his renewed game plan, Nico Williams will be the starter on the left, Lamine Yamal will occupy the right, and Raphinha will alternate as a substitute on both wings or even as a false striker. In this scenario, Ferran Torres starts as the last offensive optionand his prominence will be minimal if he decides to stay.
The sporting management has already informed him that, if he stays, his role will clearly be secondary. Although he completed a good season, the club believes he doesn't fit into the new structure and will prioritize departures that free up the wage bill and generate income. Ferran has received the message, but he will not make a decision before speaking with the coach.
He doesn't close the door
The Valencian striker doesn't want to rush. He feels comfortable at the club and believes he can keep growing under Flick's orders, as long as he is guaranteed a certain continuity. That's why he has requested a direct meeting with the coach, to know his role transparently.
If he doesn't find reasons to stay, he will consider leaving. He is not short of offers. Newcastle has followed his progress closely, and Aston Villa, led by Unai Emery, could return with a much more attractive proposal. Barça is willing to negotiate his transfer if an offer close to 50 million euros arrives, but the final decision is in Ferran's hands.