Barcelona President Joan Laporta has announced that the club now has the financial might to sign Spanish sensation Nico Williams. The 21-year-old winger was a standout performer for Athletic Bilbao last season, scoring five goals and registering 11 assists in La Liga. His impressive form has continued at Euro 2024, where he has been one of Spain’s key players as they prepare to face France in the semi-final.
Transfer Interest
Williams has attracted interest from several top clubs, including Arsenal, Chelsea, and Barcelona. His availability has been made easier by a €55 million (£46.5m) release clause in his contract with Athletic Bilbao. Barcelona’s financial issues have previously hindered their ability to register new signings, giving Arsenal and Chelsea an apparent advantage in the race to sign the talented winger.
Laporta’s Confidence
Despite these financial challenges, Laporta remains confident that Barcelona will secure Williams during the current transfer window. “Economically speaking, we could commit to the signing of Nico Williams,” Laporta said on El Matí de Catalunya Radio. “Nico’s a player I like, I like him a lot. We are working with [Hansi] Flick on possible signings. Now we have to leave Deco to close the operations we are working on.”
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Financial Optimism
Laporta also hinted at positive developments regarding Barcelona’s financial situation. “Shortly we will be able to announce some good news with regard to the financial [issues] and we will be back within La Liga’s Fair Play limits. And that will allow further good news in terms of [transfers].”
Williams’ Focus
When asked about his future last week, Williams emphasized his focus on Spain’s Euro 2024 campaign. “In the end, my brother [Athletic team-mate Inaki Williams] is a very important person for me. He has lived a similar situation to mine,” Williams said. “My agent, my parents, and my family know me perfectly, and they know that I don’t want to hear anything until the Euros are over.”