Barcelona Pull Out of Race for Nico Williams as Arsenal Take the Lead

Barcelona are no longer in the running to sign Nico Williams. While securing an agreement with Athletic Club was a key objective last summer, the Catalan giants have since shifted their focus. The Blaugrana are reportedly unwilling to trigger the winger’s €60 million release clause, a stance that leaves the door wide open for Arsenal to make their move in the coming weeks.
According to Mundo Deportivo, Barcelona are now prioritising reinforcements in other areas of the pitch-specifically targeting a central midfielder and a right-back. These revised plans underscore the club’s intention to reshape the squad ahead of next season.
For the time being, however, all attention is on tonight’s crucial Champions League clash against Borussia Dortmund. Speaking ahead of the match, a club spokesperson emphasised its significance:
“I want to stress just how important tomorrow’s [today’s] match is. It’s vital that we win and put in a strong performance. That will send a clear message to our rivals in the Champions League that we remain a formidable side.
“I’ve heard some suggestions of complacency within the squad, but I can assure you that’s not the case. Both the manager and the players are fully focused. Tomorrow’s game is pivotal-we have a great deal at stake. From a sporting perspective, it’s essential we progress to the next round, but equally, we must deliver a performance of real quality.”