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<p><strong>Barcelona</strong> are reportedly leading the race to sign Athletic Club winger <a target="_blank" href="https://gistreel.com/tag/nico-williams"><strong>Nico Williams</strong></a>, with the deal now awaiting final approval from club president <a target="_blank" href="https://gistreel.com/tag/joan-laporta"><strong>Joan Laporta</strong></a>.</p>
<p>The 22-year-old Spanish international, long admired by the Blaugrana, has expressed strong interest in a move to Catalonia, reigniting a transfer saga that appeared dormant just weeks ago.</p>
<p>According to Sky Sports Germany’s Florian Plettenberg, Barça now sit ahead of Bayern Munich, Arsenal and Chelsea in the chase for Williams.</p>
<p>Meanwhile, his current contract includes a release clause believed to be manageable if the financial conditions align.</p>
<p>Despite initial hesitation from Laporta, who has questioned the deal’s financial viability and whether LaLiga registration rules can be met, sporting director Deco has been actively negotiating with Williams’ camp.</p>
<p>Sources confirm a recent meeting between Deco and the player’s agent, Felix Tainta, as the club ramps up efforts.</p>
<p>Head coach Hansi Flick is understood to be pushing hard for Williams’ arrival, having already outlined his tactical plans to the winger in direct phone conversations, according to Football Espana.</p>
<p>Reports indicate that Spain teammate Lamine Yamal is also eager to link up with Williams at club level, adding further internal pressure to complete the deal.</p>
<p>Barcelona have reportedly cooled interest in Liverpool’s Luis Diaz, with the Colombian no longer the top attacking priority.</p>
<p>The outcome now hinges on Laporta’s financial assessment and the club’s ability to comply with LaLiga’s salary cap regulations.</p>
<p>Should the president green-light the move, sources suggest Barcelona will be positioned to finalize the deal quickly.</p>
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<p><a href="https://www.gistreel.com/barcelona-close-in-on-nico-williams-as-laporta-weighs-final-call/" previewlistener="true">Source link </a></p>

