Barcelona Transfer News Roundup: Ilkay Gundogan set to stay, Catalans not giving up on Nico Williams, and more - August 9, 2024
Barcelona are hoping to usher in a new era of dominance at Camp Nou under Hansi Flick's leadership. The German manager took charge at the club at the end of last season after Xavi was relieved of his duties.
Meanwhile, Ilkay Gundogan is set to stay with the Catalan giants beyond this summer. Elsewhere, the Spanish giants haven't ended their pursuit of Nico Williams yet.
On that note, let's look at the major Barcelona transfer stories from August 9, 2024.
Ilkay Gundogan set to stay
Ilkay Gundogan has rubbished rumors of a possible move to Turkey this summer. Recent reports have suggested that Jose Mourinho is keen to take the German midfielder to Fenerbahce this year.
Gundogan arrived at Barcelona last summer as a free agent and was heavily involved in Xavi's setup. He is expected to be equally important under Hansi Flick in the upcoming campaign, but the Catalan giants' poor finances have sparked talk of a possible exit.
Speaking to A Spor, however, Gundogan insisted that he won't leave for Turkey this year.
"Someday I can be transferred to the Super League (Turkish league) but it will not be this summer,” said Gundogan.
The player's agent and uncle, Ilhan Gundogan, has also stated that the German midfielder remains committed at Camp Nou. Speaking recently, as cited by acclaimed journalist Fabrizio Romano, he added the 33-year-old is looking forward to the new campaign.
“It is true that some clubs have shown interest in Ilkay and want to sign him, but Ilkay’s position is very clear: he will stay at Barcelona. He is looking forward to the new season in Spain and to helping Barca achieve their goals for the season,” said Ilhan Gundogan.
Gundogan appeared 51 times across competitions in the 2023-24 campaign, scoring five goals and setting up 14 more.
Barcelona not giving up on Nico Williams, says Fabrizio Romano
Barcelona still harbor hopes of securing the services of Nico Williams, according to Fabrizio Romano. The Spanish forward was a priority target for the Catalan giants earlier this summer and were ready to break the bank for him.
However, it has been recently reported that the 22-year-old wants to stay with Athletic Bilbao beyond the summer. Williams was outstanding for the Basque side last season, helping them win the Copa Del Rey. He also played a starring part in Spain's Euro 2024 triumph.
In his column for Caught Offside, Romano added that the La Liga giants are in constant contact with the player's agent to facilitate a move.
“We also know Barcelona wanted Nico Williams, so is this saga over yet? It will officially be over when Williams will officially announce his decision," wrote Romano.
“For sure he’s now back at Athletic in a fantastic mood, while Athletic remain relaxed and convinced that he’s going to end up staying. But it’s also the case that Barcelona are still attentive to the situation and keep calling Williams’ agent on daily basis,” he continued.
Williams is under contract with Bilbao until 2027.
Barca willing to offload Raphinha this summer
Barcelona are ready to listen to offers for Raphinha this summer, according to SPORT. They are looking to offload multiple fringe players this summer to streamline their squad ahead of the new campaign.
The likes of Clement Lenglet, Ferran Torres, and even Vitor Roque are no longer part of Hansi Flick's plans and will be allowed to leave this year. It now appears that Raphinha is also on that list.
The Brazilian has blown hot and cold since arriving at Camp Nou from Leeds United in 2022. Last season, he dropped down the pecking order following the emergence of Lamine Yamal.
The player still registered ten goals and 13 assists from 37 games, but is no longer a first-choice for the La Liga giants. Barcelona would like him to stay as he can add another dimension to Flick's attack next season.
However, the Catalans are willing to consider his exit for a proper fee, as they look to address their finances. Raphinha is already wanted in Saudi Arabia but apparently has no desire to move to the Middle East.
Recent reports have suggested that Arsenal also have their eyes on the 27-year-old, whose contract at Camp Nou expires in 2027.