No more Luis Diaz: La Liga winger becomes Barcelona’s absolute priority | OneFootball

Barcelona’s efforts to sign Nico Williams in recent days have been well-documented.

But voices inside Barcelona have raised concerns over the Athletic Club winger, citing that he is too close to Lamine Yamal and other players. Even Joan Laporta had a big doubt about signing Nico due to his proximity to Yamal.

However, it appears Barcelona are ready to ignore these factors and go all out for the Athletic Club winger this summer.

Barcelona make Nico their absolute priority

As reported by Mundo Deportivo, Nico has overtaken Luis Diaz to become Barcelona’s absolute transfer priority right now.

The decisive factor in Barcelona’s pursuit of Nico was the player’s determination to join the Catalan camp.

The message from Nico’s camp had a huge impact behind the scenes, especially on President Laporta.

Laporta has been left impressed by Nico’s desire to play for Barcelona (Photo by Linnea Rheborg/Getty Images)

Previously sceptical, Laporta is now on board after learning the player is not only ready to lower his wages but is also emotionally invested in the move.

Barcelona are now actively exploring the logistics of a deal. Compared to Diaz, Nico’s transfer is more straightforward in principle. The club just have to pay a €62 million release clause.

But the problem lies in the payment method. Athletic Club will only accept the full fee upfront, something Barça’s strained finances currently struggle to accommodate.

Still, the fact that the club are analysing the payment structure internally and even considering ways to activate the clause signals a major shift.

Nico’s potential arrival could go a long way in changing the dynamics in the Barcelona attack, with the Spaniard potentially competing with Raphinha for a place in the first-team next season.