Laporta at fault for Barcelona's failed Nico Williams pursuit

Cameron Smith

• Updated: 23 Aug 2024 17:24 BST
• 3 min read

Barcelona’s public pursuit of Nico Williams reportedly played a role in why he opted to snub the Blaugrana in favour of remaining at Athletic Club.

The Spain international, who shone at Euro 2024, was expected to seal a Camp Nou transfer during the summer window, but he eventually decided against joining the club.

Instead, Williams chose to stay at Athletic Club, confirming his decision by taking the No.10 shirt with the San Mames outfit.

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Spanish outlet Diario AS have now revealed that Joan Laporta’s bold transfer strategy was a key reason why Williams decided against joining the club.

The Barcelona president repeatedly stated that the Blaugrana would be able to fund a move for the Spain winger, and constant leaks to the media didn’t go down well with Williams’ camp.

In addition, the Spaniard’s representatives were concerned that Barca wouldn’t be able to register Williams due to their financial woes.

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The Blaugrana were recently forced to let Ilkay Gundogan leave the club on a free transfer and summer signing Dani Olmo is yet to be registered, despite arriving from RB Leipzig for €55 million.

Meanwhile, AS have also reported that Williams’ close circle advised him to stay at Athletic Club, while playing in Europe for Los Leones was also a contributing factor to his decision.

Nico Williams to the Premier League?

Arsenal and Chelsea were also interested in signing Williams earlier this summer, although the 22-year-old made it clear that he favoured remaining in Spain.

However, the Gunners are reportedly willing to pay ‘whatever it takes’ to sign Williams this week, despite the fact that a deal is virtually impossible.

The Athletic Club star scored eight goals and provided 19 assists in 37 appearances in all competitions last season, while his current deal with the club isn’t due to expire until 2027.