The factor that conditions Nico Williams' arrival at Barcelona

FC Barcelona still has the possibility of signing Nico Williams next season on the table. Beyond the disappointment of his decision to stay another season at Athletic, the Blaugrana management understands that, regarding left wingers, the '10' of the Bilbao team is one of the alternatives that would fit best into Hansi Flick's scheme.

The excellent relationship of the Pamplona native with the Spanish internationals at Barcelona, along with the physical and technical characteristics of the 22-year-old forward, would surely complement the already devastating attack that includes Lamine Yamal, Raphinha, and Robert Lewandowski. However, there is a key factor that continues to condition the possible arrival of the younger Williams to Can Barça.

Nico Williams doubts about the role he would occupy in Flick's Barça

Beyond the economic aspect (his clause and salary will not be difficult to fit if Barça closes one or two important sales), Nico would arrive at a team with fierce competition for a starting position. Dani Olmo, Gavi, and Fermín López have alternated minutes this season as companions of the offensive trident, with the Terrassa native currently being the first option for Flick.

If the 'star' of Athletic were to be signed, Raphinha would have to play as an attacking midfielder for the Basque to occupy the left flank, a position that both Olmo and Fermín have filled well, despite not being natural wingers. In that sense, Williams would arrive in Barcelona without having his position guaranteed, a factor that clubs like Arsenal or Paris Saint-Germain would ensure him, where he would also earn a higher salary.

In that sense, the signing of Nico Williams by Barça continues to generate doubts both in the forward's environment and in the Blaugrana management. Deco and Joan Laporta are also keeping a close eye on the future of Rafael Leao, who could leave AC Milan for an affordable price if the 'rossoneri' team fails to qualify for European competitions in the 24-25 season. In recent weeks, names like Luis Díaz and Leroy Sané have also been mentioned, although both cases are much more complicated financially.