Barcelona president Joan Laporta gave a positive thumbs up to a fan who asked him about signing Athletic Bilbao forward Nico Williams. The young attacker is highly sought after following a stellar Euro 2024 campaign with Spain.
A fan caught up with Laporta and asked him about speculation over a move for Williams. The Blaugrana's president responded (via Barca Universal):
"We will try."
Spanish outlet SPORT reports that Barcelona are prepared to pay Williams' €58 million release clause. They are waiting for the 22-year-old to agree on a move to Camp Nou.
Williams was a shining star for Spain at Euro 2024, with two goals and one assist in six games. He struck the opener in La Roja's 2-1 win against England in the final.
Those impressive performances put several European giants on alert, although Barca has always appeared favorites. Arsenal are reportedly waiting in the wings if the Catalans can't afford to sign Williams.
The 20-cap Spain international also caught the eye for Athletic last season with a remarkable assist tally. He posted eight goals and 19 assists in 37 games across competitions, wowing fans with his quick feet and creativity.
Barcelona players posted telling responses on Nico Williams' recent social media post
Williams has yet to seal a move to Barcelona, but several potential future teammates are excited. Four Catalans' squad members responded to his latest Instagram post with emoticons indicating their enthusiasm. The pacey winger posted a snap of himself enjoying the off-season after his Euro 2024 heroics.
Fermin Lopez, Alejandro Balde, Lamine Yamal, and Gavi responded with emoticons such as 'wink' and 'side eyes.' They look to be awaiting the arrival of their fellow Spaniard at Camp Nou.
Williams would be an exciting capture if Barca can strike an agreement for the Pamplona-born attacker. During his youth, he looked up to former Blaugrana hero Neymar and hopes to emulate the tricky Brazilian (via Mundo Deportivo):
"He is a big inspiration for me, the player I enjoyed watching most as a kid. I always tried to emulate his dribbles, even if they didn't always come off. He is my idol, and I hope to achieve what he has achieved in my own way."
Williams would join a Barcelona squad brimming with Spanish talent who were present as La Roja won Euro 2024. He could forge a formidable frontline with the European Championships' Young Player of the Tournament Yamal, 17, and legendary frontman Robert Lewandowski, 35.