Barcelona’s focus on bolstering their squad continues as they outline the left-wing position as their main priority for the upcoming summer transfer window. Despite attempts to strengthen this area last summer, the Catalan giants failed to secure an out-and-out winger, even after targeting Athletic Club’s Nico Williams. This time, the Blaugrana seem determined to address the gap in their lineup.
While discussions surrounding a potential successor for Robert Lewandowski persist, Barcelona appears to have shelved those plans for now, citing the difficulty of acquiring a top-tier forward. Instead, the club’s transfer agenda revolves around the left wing and both full-back positions. Despite Raphinha’s remarkable form this season, Barcelona’s management believes a specialist winger is crucial to adding more dynamism to their attack.
Nico Williams Still on the Radar
Nico Williams, who decided to stay at Athletic Bilbao this season, remains Barcelona’s top choice for the left-wing role. Reports suggest the Blaugrana will reignite their pursuit if Williams does not extend his current contract with Athletic. The Basque winger’s release clause is set at €65 million, with a proposed salary package of €9-10 million per year.
Alternative Targets: Kvaratskhelia and Leao
Napoli’s Khvicha Kvaratskhelia is also emerging as a potential candidate. The Georgian winger, who is reportedly open to leaving Napoli next summer, is in ongoing contract discussions with the Italian side. Napoli has set his asking price at around €80 million, while the player is seeking a salary of €4-5 million per year.
Rafael Leao of AC Milan has also been linked to Barcelona, but sources describe a move for the Portuguese forward as highly unlikely due to the financial complexities involved.
Financial Implications
A five-year deal for Nico Williams would cost Barcelona approximately €110-115 million, including transfer fees and wages. Comparatively, signing Kvaratskhelia could total €100-105 million, depending on the structure of Napoli’s demands. However, Barcelona’s current struggle to stay within La Liga’s salary cap will play a pivotal role in determining the feasibility of these signings.
As the summer transfer window approaches, Barcelona faces a balancing act between ambition and financial constraints. Whether they can secure their desired left-wing reinforcement remains to be seen, but it’s clear that this position is central to their plans for the future.
