Barcelona Transfer News Roundup: Hansi Flick eyeing Bundesliga ace, Nico Williams wants Camp Nou move, and more - June 21, 2024
Barcelona are working to add more quality to their squad as they embark on a new era under Hansi Flick. The German manager was roped in as Xavi's replacement at the end of last month.
Meanwhile, Flick wants to bring a Bundesliga star to Camp Nou this summer. Elsewhere, Nico Williams is eager to join the Catalan side.
On that note, let's look at the major Barcelona transfer stories from June 21, 2024.
Hansi Flick eyeing Jeremie Frimpong
Hansi Flick is prioritising a move for Jeremie Frimpong this summer, according to RAC1. The German manager took charge at Barcelona last month and is streamlining his squad ahead of the new campaign.
The Catalan giants are in the market for a new right-back this year, with a move for Joao Cancelo looking increasingly difficult. The Portuguese spent the 2023/24 campaign on loan from Manchester City and remains linked with a permanent stay at Camp Nou.
Flick has identified Frimpong as the ideal alternative for Cancelo and is pushing for a move. The Dutch right-back enjoyed a stunning campaign with Bayer Leverkusen, registering 14 goals and 12 assists from 47 games across competitions.
The player reportedly has a €40m release clause, which makes him an affordable option this summer. However, there's likely to be a rush for his signature at the end of Euro 2024.
Nico Williams wants Barcelona move, says journalist
Nico Williams has his heart set on a move to Barcelona, according to journalist Graeme Bailey. The Spanish winger is a wanted man this summer after an impress 2023/24 campaign with Athletic Bilbao.
Williams played a key role in the club's Copa del Rey triumph, finishing the campaign with eight goals and 19 assists from 37 outings across competitions. The 21-year-old's efforts have earned him admirers at Camp Nou, with the Catalans eyeing attacking reinforcements this summer.
Recent reports have suggested that the player wants a salary of €300,000 per week to leave the Basque club. Newcastle United have also been linked with Williams in recent times.
However, speaking to Geordie Boot Boys, Bailey insisted that the Magpies are likely to miss out on the Spaniard this year.
“He’s completely got his eyes on Barcelona. That is where he wants to go. As we said previously, the Premier League clubs that have been in for him were shocked [at how much money he wants],” said Bailey.
He continued:
“With not being in Europe, these are the type of deals that Newcastle United are going to miss out on. The chance of getting a player like Williams to join Newcastle when you’re not in Europe, as a North East club as well, is so much more difficult.”
Williams signed a new contract at San Mames last December, but is reportedly expected to leave this summer.
Porto interested in Sergi Roberto
Porto have set their sights on Sergi Roberto, according to Catalunya Radio. The veteran defender is a forgotten man at Barcelona and registered just 24 appearances across competitions in the 2023/24 campaign.
While his experience and back room presence was valued under Xavi, Roberto's future hangs in the balance since the arrival of Hansi Flick. The 32-year-old's contract expires this month and the Catalans haven't offered him a new deal yet.
Porto are eyeing the situation with interest and want to prise him away. They have already been in contact with the player's entourage to discuss a possible move this year.
Roberto wants to stay with Barcelona, but may have to consider his options unless he's offered a new deal. Apart from the Portuguese side, Girona and Valencia also have their eyes on the Spanish utility man.