Barcelona transfer news: Key duo could leave 'to fund' Nico Williams deal

Williams is currently starring for Spain at Euro 2024, with the 21-year-old scoring once and providing one assist in three appearances this summer for a team currently in the quarter-finals.

The forward recently said that a firm decision on his future would not be made until after the European Championship, but he is expected to leave Athletic before the end of the current market.

Arsenal and Liverpool are thought to lead the Premier League interest, but Barcelona are believed to be at the head of the queue, with Williams also said to favour a switch to the Catalan giants.

Williams scored eight goals and registered 19 assists in 37 appearances for Athletic last season, while he has 20 goals and 26 assists in 122 matches for the Basque side in all competitions.

Barcelona are 'determined' to sign Williams

According to Sport, Barcelona are desperate to secure Williams's signature this summer, but there will need to be at least one major first-team sale for that to be a possibility.

The report claims that Araujo or Raphinha could be allowed to leave, but it has not been ruled out that both players may be on the move during the summer market.

Barcelona are currently finding it difficult to convince Araujo to sign a new contract, and Manchester United are believed to be huge admirers of the Uruguay international.

The Catalan outfit, if they are unable to sign the centre-back to a new deal, will allegedly place him on the transfer list this summer, with his valuation thought to be around £70m.

Newcastle United and Manchester City are also among the clubs to be credited with an interest in Araujo, with Barcelona unlikely to be short of offers if it becomes clear that he is available for transfer.

Araujo, Raphinha 'could leave' Barcelona this summer

Raphinha's future is also currently the subject of speculation, with the Brazil international potentially being allowed to leave Barcelona this summer.

The 27-year-old had his injury problems during the 2023-24 campaign but still managed to contribute 10 goals and 13 assists in 37 appearances in all competitions.

There has been suggestions of interest from Saudi Arabia, while it is thought that a number of Premier League clubs are keeping a close eye on his situation.

Williams signed a new contract at Athletic last year, but there is believed to be a release clause of around €55m (£47m) in the agreement.

Barcelona allegedly want Williams and Lamine Yamal to play on their wings next season, which is the case for Spain, with experienced striker Robert Lewandowski continuing through the middle.