Despite the disappointment that the failed transfer of Nico Williams to Barcelona may have caused among the Blaugrana faithful, the original plans of both the club and the player remain intact, according to Sport.

The initial strategy was designed with a long-term perspective when the winger renewed his contract with Athletic Club. The idea was for all parties to be satisfied: Athletic would retain their young star for another season, Nico would leave the club with a substantial financial boost of 60 million euros, and Barça would have time to reorganize its finances.

However, the European Championship changed everything. Nico Williams emerged as a key player, and his on-field connection with Lamine Yamal created huge expectations. As a result, Barcelona saw no reason to wait.

Both Joan Laporta and sporting director Deco took action, willing to make significant financial efforts to secure the signings of Williams and Dani Olmo. But the pressure Nico felt in Bilbao ultimately led him to step back at the last minute.

Despite this setback, the long-term plan remains in place. Nico Williams does not intend to stay at Athletic for more than another year and is not considering a contract renewal.

According to Sport, although Barça couldn't sign him this year, the goal is to bring him in by June 2025. Any tension between the player and the Catalan club is seen as temporary and easily surmountable, likely to be forgotten within a few days.

Thus, Barcelona remains firmly interested in the winger, confident that the transfer will materialize in the near future when conditions are more favorable for all parties involved.