Let’s take a look at some of the most interesting stories making waves in European football today, particularly during this summer transfer window. So, it seems like Bayern Munich, the reigning Bundesliga champions, have their eyes on Nico Williams. Meanwhile, Barcelona isn’t backing down in their effort to snag Liverpool’s forward, Luis Diaz. Oh, and in other news, the legendary Claudio Ranieri has declined an opportunity to coach the Italian national team. Quite the day, huh?
Williams played a crucial role in helping Athletic Club make it to the UEFA Europa League semi-finals and secure a spot in next season's UEFA Champions League. On the flip side, there’s Bradley Barcola, who was part of that remarkable PSG squad that clinched the treble under Luis Enrique this season. A tweet from Plettenberg, you know, the transfer guru, mentioned that “Bradley Barcola and Nico Williams are currently at the top of FC Bayern’s shortlist.” There’s been some chatter between Bayern and Barcola’s representatives, and if PSG decides to grab another winger, that could really boost Barcola's chances of moving. As for Williams, talks are looking positive too. He’s even lowered his salary expectations for Bayern, going from around €7–8 million net.
Now, about Diaz — reports say Liverpool turned down an offer from the newly crowned La Liga champions. But Barcelona seems pretty chill about it. They’ve made Diaz a top target for this summer, and they’re okay with Liverpool holding firm for now. After all, there’s still a good three months left in the transfer window. They get that things can change, especially since the Premier League champions need to make some cash from player sales. Diaz has even hinted at being in talks “with some clubs,” but he hasn’t completely shut the door on renewing his contract, which runs until 2027. Quite a balancing act there, right?
Interestingly enough, while Diaz is a priority for Barca, Nico Williams’ situation is a bit different. Despite his standout performance in the Nations League semi-final against France, it seems that Barcelona has ruled out the possibility of triggering his buyout clause at Athletic Club.
Now, will Barcelona be able to persuade Liverpool to lower their asking price for Diaz? Reports suggest Liverpool wants around €80 million (£67 million/$89 million). A lot is riding on whether Barcelona can pull in some decent cash through player sales, especially since they’re looking at paying Espanyol goalkeeper Joan Garcia’s €25 million (£21 million/$28 million) release clause this week.
Over in the Bundesliga, Bayern is also on the hunt for at least one winger, given the uncertainty about Serge Gnabry, Kingsley Coman, Bryan Zaragoza, and Leroy Sane’s futures. Williams has popped up on Bayern’s radar, and the club’s directors, Max Eberl and Christoph Freund, are seriously considering a hefty offer for him.
The Athletic Club star’s contract runs until 2027, but he could potentially leave for around €60 million. Barcelona has shown interest in him for a while, but let’s be real—they might struggle to match Athletic’s asking price. If it comes down to it, Bayern might just have the upper hand if they decide to go after Williams.
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