Barcelona have been actively exploring choices to strengthen their assault forward of the brand new season.
Based on , the membership made preliminary contact relating to Eintracht Frankfurt ahead Hugo Ekitike, however later shifted their focus in direction of signing a pure winger as a substitute.
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Whereas Ekitike stays a extremely admired expertise, the Catalan giants imagine their instant want lies elsewhere.
The younger French striker, who at present performs for Eintracht Frankfurt, is among the many most sought-after gamers in Europe. With 15 objectives and eight assists within the Bundesliga final season, Ekitike turned heads along with his constant performances.
His hanging partnership with Omar Marmoush was one of many highlights of Frankfurt’s marketing campaign earlier than the Egyptian accomplished a transfer to Manchester Metropolis in January.
Barça prioritise Nico Williams
Ekitike’s identify has surfaced on the radar of high Premier League golf equipment as nicely, with Liverpool, Chelsea and Manchester United all displaying curiosity.
Hugo Ekitike is more likely to transfer to the Premier League. (Photograph by Alex Grimm/Getty Photos)
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Liverpool, specifically, look like shifting swiftly, particularly with Darwin Núñez reportedly near becoming a member of Napoli. Experiences recommend that the Merseyside membership have recognized Ekitike as a direct alternative.
Barcelona, in the meantime, determined to pause their pursuit of Ekitike after figuring out that their squad’s instant requirement was on the flanks somewhat than within the striker’s function.
This shift in technique introduced Nico Williams into focus, and now the membership is on the verge of sealing his signature.
The 22-year-old winger from Athletic Membership is reportedly for the Basque membership and its supporters, signalling {that a} transfer is imminent.
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As soon as Nico joins, supervisor Hansi Flick is predicted to . Nico will probably take up the left wing function, permitting Flick to shift Raphinha right into a central place as a No. 10 behind the primary striker, including creativity and fluidity to Barcelona’s assault.
Though Ekitike gained’t be arriving this summer season, Barcelona haven’t dominated out a future transfer. If he stays at Frankfurt past this window, he will likely be among the many membership’s high switch priorities in 2026.