FC Barcelona is already preparing for the next transfer market with a clear strategy. Hansi Flick wants to strengthen the attack with a fast, disruptive winger with potential. The chosen one is Nico Williams, one of the great promises of Spanish football and the current star of Athletic Club.
His signing seemed impossible last summer due to Barça's economic problems. However, Joan Laporta has found a formula to make it happen. The Barça president has closed a deal with Athletic that will allow Nico's arrival in exchange for three first-team players.
A priority signing for Flick
Since his arrival at Barça, Hansi Flick has been clear with the board: he needs an explosive winger who can make a difference. The German coach considers Nico Williams the best option available. His speed, power, and dribbling ability fit perfectly into the system he wants to implement in the team.
Additionally, the player has also shown interest in wearing the Barça jersey. According to close sources, Nico has contacted Barça to express his desire to join Flick's project.
A transfer paid with three departures
For Nico Williams's signing to be viable, FC Barcelona has had to design a complex operation. The winger's release clause is 60 million euros, and his salary will be around 8 million net annually.
With the club's delicate financial situation, Laporta has opted to include three players in the negotiation to reduce the transfer cost.
Ansu Fati: The Barça youth player has not managed to recover his best level after several injuries. His loan to Brighton has not been enough to convince Flick, and his departure seems inevitable.
Ferran Torres: His performance has been inconsistent since his arrival. Although he has had moments of brilliance, he has not managed to establish himself as a starter. The board considers it is time to part ways with him.
Eric García: The center-back is not in Flick's plans. Currently on loan at Girona, his definitive departure will allow Barça to reduce the wage bill and free up space in the squad.
A renewed attack with Nico Williams
With the arrival of the Athletic winger, Barça will have a faster and more vertical attack. Flick wants Nico to form a trident alongside Raphinha and Lewandowski, providing more imbalance on the wing.
The idea is for Nico Williams to become a team reference in the long term. His youth and talent make him a safe bet for the club's future. Additionally, his signing will send a clear message, Barça seeks to compete again at the highest level and needs players who make a difference.
The Barça president has worked intensively to close this deal with Athletic. The departure of three players will allow balancing the accounts and complying with LaLiga's financial fair play. Additionally, Barça will not have to disburse a large amount of cash, which will facilitate the incorporation of other key pieces in the summer.
The transfer market has not yet opened, but Barça has already made the first big move. Nico Williams will be a Barça player, and Hansi Flick will have the winger he has long requested.
Now, the board will focus on strengthening other positions to continue building a competitive team. Nico's arrival is just the first step of a summer that promises to be intense at Camp Nou.