Barcelona still waiting for top target’s response while exploring other avenues

The Nico Williams saga continues to dominate the headlines at Barcelona. Despite numerous reports linking the Athletic Club winger to Catalonia, the Blaugrana are still waiting on the player to make a definitive decision.

With less than two weeks until the end of the transfer market, time is running out for Barcelona to secure their top transfer target.

The club made it clear that they are willing to pay the €58 million release clause and had reportedly agreed personal terms with the player.

However, Athletic Club’s recent decision to hand Williams the coveted number 10 shirt for next season has cast doubt over the potential transfer.

Barcelona still waiting for Nico’s call

As reported by MARCA, Barcelona are still patiently waiting for Nico’s call, before they formally deem the case closed, while also keeping an eye on other options.

Nico is still yet to formally announce his decision (Photo by Dan Mullan/Getty Images)

Barça’s sporting director has set a deadline of August 24 to receive a definitive answer from the player.

If Nico does not confirm his desire to join the club by that date, the Blaugrana will be forced to explore alternative options.

Kingsley Coman has recently emerged as a potential alternative for the Spanish international. Barcelona, in fact, may have a free hand at signing the Bayern forward, after PSG dropped out of the race.

But with the club already facing financial difficulties and struggling to register players like Inigo Martinez and new signing Dani Olmo, the uncertainty surrounding Williams’ future is adding to the pressure on the Barcelona board.

The growing optimism at Athletic Bilbao has only added to the woes for Barça, as they desperately look to add more quality in the attacking unit this summer.