Barcelona president dreams of signing one of Euro 2024's breakout stars after resolving financial woes: Reports
Barcelona president Joan Laporta wants to sign Euro 2024 breakout star Nico Williams as soon as they resolve their financial problems. The Athletic Bilbao winger has been in top form in Germany, providing a goal and an assist against Georgia in the 4-1 Round of 16 comeback win.
The 21-year-old winger played 31 La Liga games last season, scoring five goals and providing an impressive 15 assists. Across competitions, he racked up an impressive 27 direct goal contributions.
His impressive performances in Spain and at the EUROs have been a revelation. Barca are also excited about his growing relationship with prodigy Lamine Yamal, who burst onto the first team scene last season at the Camp Nou. The duo have a fantastic partnership at Spain, so Barca would like to replicate that at club level.
According to Marca (via Barca Universal), Laporta is working on fixing Barcelona's financial situation. Once they have the finances to compete in the transfer market, they will make a move for Williams.
However, it's not expected to be a cheap venture. The 21-year-old has a €55 million release clause, according to New York Times, which could be a taxing amount for Barca.
Williams has also openly talked about continuing his career at Bilbao, rather than exiting. Hence, there are no guarantees for Barca that the winger will be interested in a move to Catalonia.
Barcelona could sell two players to sign Nico Williams
With the Blaugrana looking to sign Nico Williams this summer, due to his quality and friendship with Lamine Yamal, they will need to raise funds. Reports from SPORT (via Daily Mail) have claimed that Laporta could get the money he needs to sign Williams from the transfer market.
The first player who could be out of the club is Ronald Araujo. The 25-year-old defender has reportedly had conversations with Manchester United, where his future could lie. Barca are expected to sell him for approximately £63.5 million.
Raphinha is the other player who is no longer indispensable for Barcelona. According to the aforementioned report, the 27-year-old winger has suitors across England, with clubs like Arsenal, Liverpool and Chelsea interested in his services.
If Barca can sell either or both players, they could have the finances to make a move for Williams. The winger could potentially light up the Camp Nou if he makes the switch from Bilbao.