How Barcelona will line up with Nico Williams

Cameron Smith

23 Jul 2024 19:00 BST
2 min read

Nico Williams, Lamine Yamal, Barcelona — © IMAGO

Barcelona are edging closer to completing the signing of Athletic Club winger Nico Williams.

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The Spain international’s representatives have been sent a contract offer by Barcelona and the Spanish giants believe a move will be confirmed soon.

Fabrizio Romano provided an update on the situation, posting on X: “Barcelona are increasingly confident to get [the] final green light from Nico Williams to contract terms.

“Club now confident about having convinced Nico about the project, with La Liga approval for Financial Fair Play as key step. More contacts to follow this week.”

Williams has a €58 million release clause and despite concerns over their finances, Barcelona president Joan Laporta has revealed that his side are able to afford the Athletic Club star this summer.

Arsenal and Chelsea have also been linked with a summer move for Williams, as they both pursue a new winger, but he reportedly wants to stay in Spain and a Camp Nou switch appears close to being completed.

Below, FootballTransfers runs through how Barcelona will line up when Williams’ arrival is confirmed.

How Barcelona will line up with Nico Williams

Marc-Andre ter Stegen isn’t fancied by some sections of Barcelona fans, but he remains the club’s number one and he will not be replaced this summer.

Jules Kounde will have to settle for a regular right-back role, despite preferring to play at centre-back, with Ronald Araujo partnering the talented La Masia graduate Pau Cubarsi at the heart of defence.

Joao Cancelo has returned to Manchester City following his loan spell at Barca, meaning Alejandro Balde will likely resume first-choice left-back duties.

Barcelona are yet to sign a long-term Sergio Busquets heir, but Frenkie de Jong is set to continue in a deep-lying role, alongside Spanish duo Gavi and Pedri. Ilkay Gundogan will pick up consistent minutes too, but Gavi and Pedri will be almost guaranteed starters when fully fit.

Robert Lewandowski will lead the line, despite his declining form, while Lamine Yamal and Williams will provide pace and creativity on the flanks.