Laporta in search of the big star
The president of FC Barcelona, Joan Laporta, is in the middle of the process of strengthening the team with his eye on an emblematic signing this summer season. Nico Williams had been considered the first choice for this key piece, but uncertainties over his decision are causing nerves in the club offices.
Nico Williams’ uncertain moment
From his hometown, Bilbao, strong pressure is felt on the young talent who has not yet made a decision on Barça’s offer. This wait can complicate things, and Laporta has no intention of standing idly by if the response to Williams’ proposal is negative.
Replacement strategy: the entry of Jorge Mendes
In this scenario, the agent Jorge Mendes is presented as a key figure. A friend of Laporta, Mendes has suggested another name that could satisfy the club’s ambitions: Rafa Leao. Although Leao is not part of his business, the agent could intervene to advance the negotiations between Milan and Barcelona.
Leao: A signing with personal connections
Rafa Leao, who has repeatedly expressed his devotion to Barça and his idol, Ronaldinho, is receptive to a new challenge, as long as it is towards Barcelona. The relationship he maintains with players like Balde and Pedri can make the operation even easier, especially if the situation with Williams does not progress.
Budget allocation and signing difficulties
The cost of Leao is an additional concern for Barca, who face high financial demands from Milan, who could demand up to €80 million. With current offers of 60 million for Williams and 40 for Dani Olmo, the club’s finances could after a resounding ‘no’ from the young Basque player.
Leao, a favorite solution for Flick
The club’s technicians are convinced that Leao would fit better in Hansi Flick’s scheme than Nico Williams. Thanks to his ability to overwhelm defenses in small spaces and his goal-scoring ability, the Portuguese could be an immediate and powerful solution to Barça’s needs.
Time is on Barça’s side
With the recruitment of a star perhaps imminent, Barça needs a clear answer from Nico in the next few hours. With a ‘no’ in his answer, the club’s management should immediately activate a plan B, with Leao as a priority. The future of the club is exciting and uncertain, with Laporta giving everything to follow his vision with an impact signing.