An imminent addition
The addition of Nico Williams to Futbol Club Barcelona is one step away from becoming a reality. Barring an unexpected turn of events, the current Athletic Club player will wear the Blaugrana colors next season, becoming one of the Catalans’ most outstanding signings. However, this new player creates a dilemma when assigning places in the offensive line. Both Deco and Hansi Flick are actively working to adjust this situation.
A well covered attack
With the addition of Nico Williams, Barça will have an impressive selection of attackers: Nico Williams, Lamine Yamal, Robert Lewandowski, Ferran Torres, Ansu Fati, Raphinha and Vitor Roque. That amount of players limits the options and presents a challenge, especially considering the solidity of the aforementioned starting trio that seems to be out of the question. Therefore, it is expected that two of these pieces can be released before the transfer market closes.
Analysis of the situations of Raphinha and Vitor Roque
At the moment, Raphinha and Vitor Roque are the ones most at risk of leaving the club before September 1st. Hansi Flick has been impressed with Ansu Fati’s early performance in training, and also appreciates the versatility of Ferran Torres, who can play in all attacking positions. The German coach believes that Ansu has a better chance of being the second ‘9’ behind Lewandowski than Vitor Roque, who did not impress in his first appearances either with Flick or with the previous coach, Xavi Hernandez.
Raphinha’s situation
In the case of Raphinha, his situation is quite different. The former Leeds United player has repeatedly shown his worth during games, and Flick’s outlook is to keep him if given the chance. However, there is a market for the Brazilian player and if an attractive offer does arise, the club would be open to considering it. There is speculation that Raphinha would not take kindly to being relegated to a supporting role, especially when compared to Lamine Yamal, a young talent aged just 17.
English clubs show interest
As the transfer season progresses, several teams in the Premier League are waiting on the situation of Raphinha, who would not rule out a possibility of a transfer to England. Hansi Flick has informed Deco that with Ansu, Lamine, Nico, Lewandowski and Ferran, he believes he has sufficient resources at his disposal for the attack, while waiting to see what will happen with Joao Félix, as well as the possible arrivals of Dani Olmo and the young talents of the branch.
The summer is still long, and it is likely that more offers will come to light at Can Barça. With the uncertainty surrounding the club, Raphinha and Vitor Roque could be at risk of starting the season wearing a different shirt to the Blaugrana.
