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2 months ago
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Barcelona are eagerly anticipating the signing of Nico Williams, confident that the player’s commitment to prioritise them will fend off any interest from Paris Saint-Germain or Premier League clubs.
According to a report by Luis Miguelsanz in SPORT, the Catalan giants are unfazed by external speculation, aiming to swiftly conclude the transfer by meeting Athletic Club’s release clause and allowing ample time for them to find a replacement.
Amidst the media frenzy surrounding Nico, Athletic Club’s president, Jon Uriarte, has expressed his discontent, indirectly addressing Joan Laporta’s remarks about the player.
Despite these tensions, Barcelona seek to maintain amicable relations with Athletic Club, pressing forward with their plan to secure Nico.
Their strategy involves finalising the deal once the 1:1 salary cap rule comes into effect, potentially completing the transfer as early as July, pending financial negotiations.
Nico wants Barcelona. Period!
For now, formal discussions with Athletic Club have not yet commenced, but that’s because Barcelona are focused on resolving financial obligations.
Barcelona are progressing well to sign Nico Williams. (Photo by ANGELOS TZORTZINIS/AFP via Getty Images)
Nevertheless, Barcelona have engaged with Nico’s representatives, aligning their intentions with those of four other European clubs also vying for the striker’s signature.
Contract proposals have been exchanged, progressing smoothly as Barcelona resolve salary cap issues and seek funds to meet the release clause independently.
Looking ahead, Barcelona anticipate advancing negotiations post-Euros, aiming for a resolution by mid-July.
This timeline underscores their commitment to finalising terms with Nico Williams while maintaining transparent communication with Athletic Club.
As for Athletic Club, they stand to benefit significantly from Nico’s departure, having secured a lucrative €58 million from his sale.
While they had hoped to retain him for their upcoming Europa League campaign, Nico Williams appears steadfast in his decision to join either Barcelona or Athletic, rejecting offers from the Premier League and PSG. His preference for a meaningful move and Barcelona’s substantial efforts to secure his services signal imminent developments in the ongoing saga.
As negotiations near their conclusion, Barcelona remains poised to initiate the final stages of the acquisition process. The imminent decision rests with Nico, who views this opportunity to don the Blaugrana jersey as a pivotal moment in his career.
With days and weeks unfolding, Barcelona anticipate a timely resolution, bringing closure to what promises to be a mutually beneficial transaction for all parties involved.
