Barcelona Transfer News Roundup: Catalans suffer Nico Williams blow, Arsenal eyeing Dani Olmo, and more - December 25, 2024

Barcelona are third on the LaLiga table after 19 games, three points behind leaders Atletico Madrid, who have played a game less. Hansi Flick's team are going through a rough patch at the moment and have just one win in their last five games in the league.

Meanwhile, the Catalans have suffered a setback in their plans to take Nico Williams to Camp Nou. Elsewhere, Arsenal are plotting a move for Dani Olmo in 2025.

On that note, let's look at the major Barcelona transfer stories from December 25, 2024.

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Barcelona suffer Nico Williams blow

Nico Williams

Nico Williams would prefer a move to Real Madrid if he leaves Athletic Bilbao, according to Real Madrid Confidencial (via Barca Universal). The Spanish forward was a target for Barcelona this summer, but they failed to convince him to move.

Williams was outstanding for Athletic Bilbao last season, helping them win the Copa del Rey. He was also key to Spain's Euro 2024 triumph over the summer and isn't short of admirers at the moment.

Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), Chelsea, Liverpool, and Tottenham Hotspur are also eyeing the 22-year-old with interest. The Parisians are apparently willing to activate the player's €60m release clause, which could further complicate matters for the Catalans.

However, Barcelona will be relieved by the fact that Real Madrid are not actively looking to sign Williams. The Catalans, meanwhile, remain determined to get their man in 2025. Apart from the aforementioned clubs, they could also face competition from Bayern Munich for his signature.

Arsenal eyeing Dani Olmo

Dani Olmo is wanted at the Emirates

Arsenal have set their sights on Dani Olmo, according to journalist Sacha Tavolieri. The Spanish midfielder joined Barcelona this summer from RB Leipzig.

However, the Catalans could only register him for the first half of the season, owing to their poor finances. As things stand, the 26-year-old could leave as a free agent in January due to a clause in his contract.

The Gunners are keeping a close watch on the situation as they look to add more creativity to their squad. The player's representatives are apparently in regular touch with the north London side as well as Manchester City ahead of the move.

However, the report adds that a move to the Emirates isn't certain following Edu's departure from the sporting director role. Meanwhile, Olmo remains a key figure at Camp Nou, and the LaLiga giants are likely to do everything possible to keep hold of him.

Ronald Araujo wants to stay

Ronald Araujo

Ronald Araujo has no plans to leave Barcelona at the moment, according to SPORT. The Uruguayan missed the start of the season with a hamstring injury but is now back to full fitness.

His contract with the Catalans expires at the end of next season. The 25-year-old has previously been linked with an exit from Camp Nou, while he hasn't signed a new deal yet.

However, the report adds that negotiations for a new deal have progressed well. Araujo is also determined to succeed with the LaLiga giants and wants to stay and fight for his place in the team.