Spanish media have revealed a major factor behind star Nico Williamsโ choice to turn down a move to Barcelona during the summer transfer window of 2024. Barcelona had made Williams a primary target to strengthen their team this season, but President Joan Laporta was unable to complete the transfer.
According to Nico Williamsโ statements to the Catalan newspaper *Sport*, he rejected Barcelonaโs offer due to worries about the clubโs financial instability and the challenges facing President Joan Laporta. The report also highlighted Williamsโ concerns about potential issues with his registration because of Barcelonaโs problems with financial fair play regulations.
Williams revealed that he was open to joining Barcelona and had expressed this to the clubโs sporting director. However, he sought a guarantee for his inclusion in the teamโs roster, a condition that President Laporta and sporting director Deco were unable to provide. Consequently, Williams decided to remain with Athletic Bilbao for the season.
The newspaper also mentioned that Barcelonaโs summer transfer window ended with the signings of Pau Victor from Girona and Dani Olmo from Leipzig, Germany, for a combined total of 60 million euros.
