The reason why Barcelona are struggling to sign a left-winger – report | OneFootball

Barcelona are currently focused on strengthening their left-wing position, a task that is both complex and strategic.

This is because the move involves not only acquiring new players but also deciding who to sell, transfer, or reposition within the team.

Currently, the top names on the table, as identified by sporting director Deco, are Luis Diaz from Liverpool, Nico Williams from Athletic Club, and Dani Olmo from RB Leipzig.

Out of these, Deco prefers the Colombian the most. However, bringing Diaz on board would likely mean parting ways with Raphinha, who is an equally valuable player for the club, reports Mundo Deportivo.

Barcelona will have to make sacrifices

Diaz is highly valued in the market and is seen as a good replacement for Raphinha due to their similar age and experience levels.

Both players are competitive and aggressive on the field. However, to sign the Colombian, Barcelona would need to let go of Raphinha, who has several offers, including significant interest from Al Hilal in Saudi Arabia.

Barcelona will have to sell Raphinha to sign Luis Diaz. (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images)

Nico, on the other hand, is another strong contender but poses a different challenge. At 21 years old, he is younger than Raphinha and lacks the same level of experience.

He is a dynamic player but has not yet matched Diaz’s goal-scoring record. Moreover, his transfer clause is set at €58 million, which Athletic Club does not allow to be paid in instalments.

Troubles with Nico Williams

The club has a strict policy on sales due to their limited recruitment pool, which is restricted to players from the Basque Country. Additionally, Nico’s salary demands are high, as Athletic Club pay well to retain talent.

Barcelona would need to offer him an even higher salary, which complicates matters further. There is also a concern about the lack of experience in the forward line if Nico were signed, as two of the three main attackers would be very young—Lamine Yamal at 17 and Williams at 21.

Dani Olmo divides opinions at Barcelona. (Photo by Dan Mullan/Getty Images)

Olmo, on his part, is also a popular option due to his versatility. He can play on either wing, as a forward, or as a midfielder.

However, Olmo he not have the same one-on-one prowess as Diaz or Williams. His transfer clause is set at €60 million, which expires on July 15, pressing Barcelona to make a quick decision.

Olmo’s advantage lies in his background—having trained in Barcelona’s youth system—and his current club, RB Leipzig, might allow the transfer fee to be paid in instalments.

Barcelona are in a dilemma

While considering these potential new signings, Barcelona must also take into account three current players who can play on the wing: Ferran Torres, usually positioned on the right; Ansu Fati; and Joao Felix, who typically plays on the left.

All three players wish to remain at Barcelona, although they are aware that their roles might be more as substitutes rather than starters.

Barcelona also needs to resolve this winger dilemma while recognizing that the right wing is already solidly held by young talent Lamine Yamal, with Ferran Torres as his backup.

Therefore, any new left winger would be competing for a starting position on the left side of the field.