Nico Williams shines again with Spain: Is he the ideal winger for Barça?

Nico Williams was the standout player for Spain in the first leg of the UEFA Nations League quarter-finals. The 21-year-old forward led the attack during the visit to the Netherlands, being instrumental in both goals that allowed the national team to rescue a golden draw in Rotterdam (2-2). In the 9th minute, he scored a stunning goal with remarkable finishing, following a pass from Pedri González.

Later, in stoppage time, another long-range shot of his allowed Mikel Merino to capture a rebound in the small area, sending the ball into the net completely unmarked. Spain always found solutions on the left thanks to the good work of the 'crack' from Athletic Club, who remains the top option for FC Barcelona regarding left wingers.

Although his numbers in the 24-25 season have not been the best (he has 9 goals and 7 assists in 37 matches with Athletic), performances like Thursday's in Rotterdam highlight the enormous quality and excellent understanding of the younger Williams with the Barcelona internationals in La Roja. However, his arrival at Can Barça will not be easy this summer.

Here are Barça's options to sign Nico Williams

The negotiations between Nico Williams and FC Barcelona have taken several recent turns. Although it initially seemed that signing the Basque player was unlikely after the forward's "no" last summer, the club has reactivated contacts and is considering paying his release clause, which is approximately 60 million euros.

However, the winger aspires to a minimum salary of around 12 'kilos' net per season, a sum difficult to fit into the Blaugrana wage bill. Barça, in fact, does not rule out offering some player as part of the payment, although Athletic insists on collecting the full amount of the 21-year-old forward's clause to let him go.

Nico is under contract until June 2027 and the 'lions' dream of renewing him again, seeking to increase the amount of his clause. However, the player does not consider this route, as he fulfilled his promise to stay one more year to play in the Europa League, dismissing offers from Barça and Paris Saint-Germain at the end of Euro 2024.

How would Nico Williams' arrival impact Barça's play?

• Nico Williams would bring speed and mobility in the opponent's area, allowing Barça to be even more lethal in high pressing and create spaces for counterattacks. Likewise, his ability to break down the flanks could be a valuable asset for a team looking to maintain a high pace in the game.
• Additionally, the relationship between Nico Williams and Lamine Yamal could be beneficial for the team. Both have shown an excellent connection in the past, which could translate into better coordination on the field and greater effectiveness in attack. 
• On the other hand, the incorporation of Nico Williams would increase competition in attack, which could improve the overall performance of the team. This would allow Hansi Flick to have more options to rotate players and keep the starters fresh.