If there’s one thing most people agree on, it’s that Barcelona needs to sign a winger to provide backup for Lamine Yamal and Raphinha.
But when you mention Luis Díaz or Marcus Rashford, eyebrows are rightfully raised.
Barcelona can’t go out and waste money. It’s possible they will only be able to make one significant signing this summer, and they have to get it right.
So why has Nico Williams fallen so out of favor, when just a year ago, there was a fervor surrounding his possible arrival?
Spain v France - UEFA Nations League 2025 Semi-final Photo by Alexander Hassenstein/Getty Images
Seeing him play for Spain again, this time against France in the UEFA Nations League, you’re reminded of why Barcelona became so interested in the star forward to begin with. It’s hard not to think of Barcelona when you watch Spain, and when you do, you see in the Williams the closest thing to a guarantee that you’re going to get when you take a chance on a new player.
Throw him in alongside Lamine Yamal, Pedri, Dani Olmo, and Ferran Torres, and let the group go to work and replicate the magic that they produce consistently for La Roja. The chemistry with Williams is built in.
Spain v France - UEFA Nations League 2025 Semi-final Photo by Alexander Hassenstein/Getty Images
The first argument against Williams is that he wasn’t a world beater for Athletic Club. But come on, this is an Ernesto Valverde coached team we’re talking about. Talented, solid collectively, but not exactly a platform where a player like Williams can really shine.
Nico won’t come cheap, but then again neither did Dani Olmo. In fact, Williams’ market value is considered to be around €70 million, with a release clause in his contract, that expires in 2027, at €50 million. Last summer, Barcelona paid €60 million for Olmo.
For me, Williams is worth that money, especially considering the insurance you get having seen what he is capable of with his Spanish team-mates, where he makes scoring and assisting look easy.
Spain v France - UEFA Nations League 2025 Semi-final Photo by Pau Barrena - UEFA/UEFA via Getty Images
What it should come down to, in the end, is the player himself, and how badly he wants to play for Barcelona. Meaning, Joan Laporta should not stand in the way, if it’s true what the rumors say that he feels slighted after the negotiations from a year ago.
Athletic Club is at the moment desperate to get him to sign a contract extension, and they will be willing to offer him big wages.
Nico needs to decide for himself where he wants to be, and if he wants to force his way out.
In order for that to happen, he will first need to hear from Barcelona that they want him.
FC Barcelona Training Session - Final Copa Del Rey Photo By Salva L. Castizo/Europa Press via Getty Images
So enough of the Rashford and Díaz speculation, put it to rest. Barcelona should focus their attention on getting the player they are the most familiar with, who has the best chance of integrating himself with the team successfully right away.
That man is Nico Williams.
Barcelona would be foolish to not at least pursue the possibility. Deco and Laporta, time to get to work, and make the common sense move that brings Barcelona to the next level.