180-Degree Turn with Nico Williams: Neither Athletic nor Barça, He Already Has a New Team

FC Barcelona continues working on planning new signings to strengthen its squad. The sports management, led by Deco, is still evaluating options to find the best alternative to reinforce the left wing. With Raphinha as the only option in that position, Hansi Flick knows it's essential to find a quality counterpart to give him rest and maintain a high level on the flank.

In this context, Deco has recently received updates on the future of Nico Williams. The young winger from Athletic Club was considered an option to strengthen the culé attack, but relations between both parties broke down in the past summer market. Now, Nico's future seems clearer, as he has received an interesting offer that's hard to refuse.

Nico Williams's break with Barça

Nico Williams was close to joining FC Barcelona last summer, but negotiations ultimately didn't come to fruition. The break between the player and the Catalan club has been clear, which has allowed other major clubs to focus on the 22-year-old Spanish winger. Despite being a standout talent in LaLiga, Barça's expectations and Athletic Club's demands didn't align, which ultimately thwarted his signing.

In this regard, the lack of agreement between both parties opened the door to new clubs interested in Nico Williams. One of the most active is Arsenal, which has begun to take the lead in the race for Nico, who could be a great addition to Mikel Arteta's project.

Arsenal takes the lead for Nico Williams

According to 'El Nacional', Arsenal has reached an agreement with Nico Williams and his entourage, putting the London team ahead to close the signing.

Mikel Arteta sees Nico Williams as a key player for his playing system, thanks to his speed, dribbling ability, and ease in creating danger on the wing. Arsenal's proposal is solid, and there's talk of a lucrative contract that could be very attractive for the player. Additionally, the possibility of playing in the Premier League and in a team competing for European titles seems to have convinced the Basque winger.

Barça, in search of alternatives

Meanwhile, FC Barcelona doesn't stop in its search for reinforcements for the attack. Although the relationship with Nico Williams has cooled, Deco continues to explore other options to complement the culé forward line. In this sense, names like Rafael Leão or Luis Díaz are gaining prominence again.

Raphinha remains an important piece, but Barça needs to ensure it has quality alternatives in all positions to maintain competitiveness in all competitions. However, the potential signing of Nico Williams by Arsenal reflects the fierce competition that exists in the market. Therefore, the Catalan club must react quickly to find the right reinforcement.