Barcelona Transfer News Roundup: Catalans receive Kingsley Coman boost, club eyeing Croatian ace, and more - August 15, 2024
Barcelona are working to add more quality to their squad before the end of the summer. Hansi Flick has already welcomed Dani Olmo to his roster, and is expected to push for more signings.
Meanwhile, the Catalans have received a boost in their efforts to sign Kingsley Coman this summer. Elsewhere, the LaLiga giants are interested in a Croatian forward.
On that note, let's look at the major Barcelona transfer stories from August 15, 2024.
Barcelona receive Kingsley Coman boost
Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) have ended their pursuit of Kingsley Coman, according to SPORT. The French forward is a wanted man this summer and will be allowed to leave Bayern Munich.
Barcelona have reportedly identified him as a possible alternative to Nico Williams. The Spaniard emerged as a priority target for the Catalans at the start of the summer.
However, it now appears that the 22-year-old won't be leaving Athletic Bilbao this summer. The LaLiga giants remain determined to add more firepower to their frontline before the end of the transfer window and have apparently identified Coman as a target.
The Frenchman rose through the ranks at the Parc des Princes and it was initially reported that the Parisians are planning to bring him back. However, it now appears that the Ligue 1 champions have opted against the move following their acquisition of Desire Doue.
Catalans eyeing Ivan Perisic
Barcelona have set their sights on Ivan Perisic, according to Mundo Deportivo. The Croatian forward is a free agent this summer and is looking for his next club. The 35-year-old is an immensely experienced campaigner, who could be an interesting addition to the Catalans' roster.
The LaLiga giants are in danger of missing out on Nico Williams this year. With Raphinha's future also up in the air, Barcelona are already eyeing attacking additions at the moment.
However, they have to be quite calculative in the market due to their poor financial situation. Perisic represents a cost-effective option for the Catalans to utilize. The Croatian could be happy with a squad role under Hansi Flick and could also add another dimension to the German's attack.
Ernesto Valverde opens up on Nico Williams future
Athletic Bilbao manager Ernesto Valverde has reiterated his desire to keep Nico Williams at San Mames beyond this summer. Recent reports have suggested that Barcelona haven't given up on their pursuit of the Spaniard.
Williams was outstanding for Bilbao last season, powering them to the Copa Del Rey title. He was also decisive in Spain's march to the Euro 2024 title.
His efforts have reportedly made the 22-year-old a priority target for the Catalans. However, recent reports have suggested that Williams is edging towards a stay with Bilbao this year.
Speaking recently, as cited by SPORT, Valverde added that it is vital for the Basque club to keep hold of their prized asset beyond the summer.
“I have nothing to say, the market is open. We have players like Nico who are doing well here, but the market is open until the 30th so that we and the rest of the teams can improve their squads. I see Nico in very good shape,” said Valverde.
He continued:
“That Nico can continue with us this season is important in terms of our own self-esteem. I don’t know what can happen, but I certainly see it as very good. We have always been very clear in that sense.”
Nico Williams signed a new contract with Bilbao last summer that runs until 2027.