Barcelona edging closer to sealing Nico Williams transfer with Blaugrana weighing up bid to land Hansi Flick's top target amid Arsenal and Bayern Munich interest

Per Sky Sports' Florian Plettemberg, the Blaugrana have emerged as favourites to secure the transfer of Spanish Williams from Athletic Club this summer. European giants like Bayern Munich, Arsenal and Chelsea are keen on adding the star winger to their roster, but it is now believed that the Spanish champions are in pole position in the transfer race.

Plettenberg added that Barca president Joan Laporta is now evaluating the feasibility of the move and if the club can actually register the player, while complying wth La Liga's financial regulations. As soon as the club chief gives his green signal, the Catalan giants are expected to go ahead and complete the transfer, as manager Hansi Flick has prioritised the youngster's signature.

Barcelona, who are determined to add a new player to their attack ahead of the 2025-26 campaign, have also placed Liverpool star Luis Diaz in their shortlist.

The reigning La Liga champions' pre-season tour has not been finalised yet, but Flick's men could embark on a tour to Asia, aiming to reconnect with their global fanbase and fine-tune their squad for the challenges ahead.