Romano confirms Barcelona will open talks for top target this week

Tom Weber

• Updated: 15 Jul 2024 11:56 BST
• 4 min read

Barcelona are set to open talks with Nico Williams this week, according to Fabrizio Romano.

The Spain star is coming off a stunning season, first having impressed with Athletic Club and then stealing the show at Euro 2024. Williams was one of the breakout stars of the tournament in Germany and played a crucial role in the final, being named UEFA's Player of the Match.

It was a performance that once again illustrated why the 22-year-old is in such high demand. His directness, incisiveness and irresistible dribbling ability make him a joy to watch and a nightmare to defend against.

READ MORE: Arsenal could sign Euro 2024 defender who is EVEN better than Riccardo Calafiori

Williams netted a goal as Spain triumphed, proving that concerns about his price tag should be set aside by Premier League giants who can afford him, such as Arsenal and Chelsea, with the latter in particular in dire need of a player like the Bilbao man.

Both have thus far refrained from making a move for him, believing that, although his €58 million release clause is fair, his wage demands could prove to be excessive. This could now come back to bite them.

Barcelona step up pursuit

According to Fabrizio Romano, Barcelona will step up their pursuit of Williams this week. The Blaugrana brass from Joan Laporta down to Hansi Flick have made the Athletic Club winger their top target for the summer.

Barcelona are prepared to use their entire summer budget on the 22-year-old, though they may first have to sell a player to avoid falling foul of financial regulations.

READ MORE: Chelsea forced to act as 'agreement reached' with €30m target

LaLiga president Javier Tebas has already given the green light to a move, but it is better to be safe than sorry as far as the Blaugrana are concerned.

Romano reports that Barcelona will initiate formal talks with the player's camp to get an understanding of the financial package on the player's side, especially of his wage demands. The Italian transfer expert insists that Barcelona want to seal a quick deal for Williams before Arsenal and Chelsea change their minds.