For most of the 2024 summer transfer window, Barcelona were chasing Nico Williams. The Catalans were looking for a winger, and the 22-year-old was the clear choice. However, a move ended up not happening, and he stayed at the Athletic Club for at least one more season.
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In the end, Barcelona chose to go for Dani Olmo. An agreement was reached with RB Leipzig at the beginning of August, despite missing two games due to registration problems, he has now played – and thrived – on his return to the Catalan capital, which he it had previously been until 2025.
Many were shocked by Barcelona's pursuit of Olmo, especially since they were already interested in Williams. They also made their move before the latter made his decision to stay, so it wasn't just a rebound choice.
Deco, the sporting director of Barcelona, gave the rationale for choosing Olmo over Williams, as per MD.
“He needed a level winger. We have Raphinha, Ferran, the return of Ansu who was very good in pre-season but he had the foot injury, we have Lamine… We have players who can play as wings like Fermín or Dani Olmo. We were clear that to bring a player had to be of a very high level. But in the end, the signing of Dani Olmo gave more options. It's not that we didn't talk to the clubs and the players, but in the end we had priorities that were decisive not to bring another winger”.
So far, Barcelona have been vindicated in their decision to go for Olmo over Williams – if the latter had signed, Raphinha would not have been a starter, and he has been spectacular this season.
Now, should Barcelona try to return for Williams next summer? It has been reported that they intend to do so, although this will only happen if his release clause remains at the same amount. In the event that he signs a new contract, the chances of an agreement are very slim.
The short answer is: yes. Williams will be 23 next summer, so he's still very young. It will only get better, and if Barcelona can have Lamine Yamal, Raphinha and Dani Olmo as their top-tier wing options, it would be great for them to have so much quality at their disposal.
It will be interesting to see if Barcelona back for Williams in 2025, that's for sure.
