Barcelona consider 22-year-old Bayern Munich forward as alternative to Nico Williams: Reports
Barcelona are prepared to turn their attention to Bayern Munich outcast Bryan Zaragoza after failing in their bid to sign Nico Williams this summer. The Spanish giants are in the market for attacking reinforcements after their struggles in the 2023-24 season.
Athletic Club star Nico Williams has been on the radar of multiple clubs in the past year after developing into one of the finest wingers in Europe. The Spaniard helped his club win the Copa del Rey in 2023-24 before helping Spain win a first major title since 2012 at Euro 2024.
Williams was interested in remaining in the Spanish top-flight despite interest from Chelsea and Arsenal in the Premier League. Barcelona indicated interest in the 22-year-old and attempted to reach an agreement to sign him but were unsuccessful.
SPORT reports that La Blaugrana are now prepared to make a move for another 22-year-old Spanish winger in Bryan Zaragoza. He has been in Germany for just seven months, having moved to Bayern Munich from Granada in January 2024.
Zaragoza has struggled to make an impact in Germany, appearing only seven times for Bayern since his arrival. The winger struggled to fit in as he did not speak the language, and Thomas Tuchel found it difficult to play him. He is appreciated by Barcelona's director Deco, and the club may look to make a move for him.
The injury to Ansu Fati means that La Blaugrana may look to carry out a smart deal in the market, and the opportunity of signing Zaragoza is certainly one. Bayern Munich director Max Eberl has indicated that the Spaain international does not feature in the club's plans for the season, and he will move this summer.
Barcelona target Nico Williams returns to Bilbao - Reports
Barcelona are set to receive further confirmation of their failure in the pursuit of Nico Williams after the forward returned to Bilbao, as per Jijantes. The youngster was on an extended holiday after helping Spain win Euro 2024 this summer.
Williams was said to be open to a move to Catalunya this summer before a surprise U-turn saw him change his mind. His return to Bilbao to begin his pre-season preparations ahead of the 2024-25 season further indicates his decision.
Barcelona will have to rely on the likes of Fati and potentially make a move to sign another forward this summer. Nico Williams, on the other hand, will be involved in European football for the first time in his club career with Athletic Bilbao.