Barcelona refuse to revive interest in La Liga winger despite standout display for national team | OneFootball

Barcelona may have been impressed by Nico Williams’ standout display for Spain against France, but their transfer plans remain unchanged.

In fact, according to a fresh report from SPORT, the club is still prioritising Liverpool’s Luis Diaz this summer.

Despite the buzz around Nico’s recent form, the Blaugrana have decided to move on from the Athletic Club winger due to strained ties with his camp and disappointment from past dealings.

Just a year ago, Nico was seen as one of Barcelona’s main targets. However, internal issues and difficult negotiations caused the relationship to break down.

As things stand, the club is not looking back. Deco, Barcelona’s sporting director, continues to push for the signing of Diaz. He sees the Colombian as a key figure in the team’s future and has made him his top target.

Luis Diaz remains the priority

While Barcelona admire Diaz, signing him is far from simple. Liverpool are working on a contract renewal for the forward and have made it clear they won’t let him go for anything less than €80 million.

Luis Diaz is still Barcelona’s target. (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)

That figure is too high for Barcelona in their current financial situation. Despite this, Deco has not given up.

He believes Diaz fits the profile needed to bring more flair and intensity to the left side of the attack. But unless Liverpool soften their stance or agree to negotiate, the dream may have to wait.

Nico Williams not even a second-choice

With Diaz proving difficult to land, Marcus Rashford has emerged as a potential alternative. Barcelona have already met with the Manchester United forward’s representatives and are exploring the possibility of a loan with an option to buy.

Hansi Flick is open to the idea. Rashford’s attacking qualities are appreciated, especially as he looks to revive his career. While not as defensive-minded as Diaz, his hunger to succeed and lower cost make him an appealing option.

In all of this, Nico Williams’ name has faded away, which is proof that football moves fast and past interests can be quickly replaced.