Barcelona’s five reasons for prioritising Nico Williams as top summer target

Earlier this weekend, it was revealed that Barcelona consider Athletic Club’s Nico Williams to be their top target to reinforce the left wing position in Xavi Hernandez’s squad. He is their preferred option at this stage, ahead of former La Masia star Dani Olmo, who currently plays alongside Williams for the Spanish national team.

Sport have revealed further details as to why Williams is preferred by Barcelona. Firstly, they great appreciate the power and speed that he possesses, and has utilised on many occasions throughout the season for Los Leones. They also consider him to be an excellent one-on-one winger, which is what they need for the left-hand side.

Furthermore, Williams would cost less than Olmo. Barcelona would need to pay €50m to sign the former this summer, as that is his release clause at Athletic, whereas Olmo would cost €60m – his release clause at RB Leipzig. Taking into account that Williams is also five years younger, Los Blaugrana firmly believe that he is the better option.

Barcelona also consider Williams as a possible backup striker, which they will need for next season if Vitor Roque is loaned out, which looks increasingly likely at this stage.

These arguments are certainly compelling, and it now remains to be seen whether Barcelona turn their interest into a official approach over the coming weeks and months.