Barcelona winger target with €62m release clause sets deadline to decide future | OneFootball

Athletic Club and Spain winger Nico Williams remains a top target on FC Barcelona’s list of potential signings for the upcoming summer transfer window.

The Blaugrana already tried to sign the 22-year-old attacker last summer, with club president Joan Laporta pushing for a deal.

However, with Barcelona manager Hansi Flick and sporting director Deco leaning towards Dani Olmo and the club lacking the financial ability to sign both, the winger stayed put at Athletic.

Heading into the summer, though, Barça still remain keen on Nico, with Flick understood to have given his approval for a transfer.

Nico wants future sorted by July 15

Now, according to SPORT, Nico Williams is keen to avoid the drawn-out saga similar to what ensued last summer.

The Athletic Club winger’s aim is to have his future resolved by the start of pre-season, as both he and Barcelona are eager to avoid another transfer saga. As such, the firm deadline for a final decision has been set for 15 July.

Nico Williams remains a target for Barcelona. (Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images)

Nico’s release clause remains just over €62 million, a sum that Barcelona can afford to pay. However, the main obstacle lies in the club’s wage bill limitations, which continue to restrict their operational flexibility.

Barcelona want a new winger

Barcelona remain keen on strengthening the left flank before next season, with Nico being one of the main targets.

The need for such a player could further be exacerbated as recent reports suggested that Barcelona could open the doors for Raphinha’s exit in the summer should offers of around €80-90 million arrive.

In any case, the pursuit of Nico is not seen as incompatible with Raphinha staying put at the club.

But, with the player setting a deadline of July 15 to sort things out, Barcelona cannot allow the matter to drag out like last summer and must look to secure the deal at the earliest.