Barcelona Transfer News Roundup: Catalans suffer Nico Williams blow, Bundesliga star close to Camp Nou return, and more - July 30, 2024

Barcelona finished second in the La Liga table last season and are now working to bridge the gap with champions Real Madrid. New manager Hansi Flick is eyeing multiple targets to reinforce his squad over the summer.

Meanwhile, the Catalans have suffered a setback in their efforts to sign Nico Williams this summer. Elsewhere, a Bundesliga midfielder could be on his way back to Camp Nou this year.

On that note, let's look at the major Barcelona transfer stories from July 30, 2024.

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Barcelona suffer Nico Williams blow

Nico Williams could end up staying at Athletic Bilbao beyond this summer, according to journalist Daniel Sobis. The Spanish forward is a wanted man this summer following his exploits with club and country.

After helping Bilbao lift the Copa del Rey last season, Williams played a starring role in La Roja's Euro 2024 triumph, endearing himself to clubs across Europe. Barcelona are among the list of his suitors, which also includes Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) and Arsenal.

The Catalans are looking to embark on a new journey under Hansi Flick and the German manager has identified the frontline as an area that needs upgrade. The La Liga giants believe Williams is perfect for the job and have reportedly agreed terms with the player's entourage.

The 22-year-old is yet to give his green signal to a move, even as Barcelona prepare to trigger his €58m release clause. However, it now appears that the Spaniard could end up staying at San Mames for another campaign.

Williams reportedly promised his brother, Inaki Williams, that they would play European football together for the Basque club. Bilbao are in the Europa League next season and with the final of the tournament scheduled at San Mames, he now has every reason to stay.

It now appears that the 22-year-old has decided to stay put this summer, which will be a huge blow for the Catalans. The player signed a new contract last December and Athletic Bilbao are also desperate for him to continue under Ernesto Valverde.

Dani Olmo close to Camp Nou return

Dani Olmo is edging closer to a return to Barcelona this summer, according to MARCA. The Spanish midfielder has emerged as a priority target for the Catalans after his performances with La Roja in their triumphant run at Euro 2024.

Olmo rose through the ranks at Camp Nou but left before he could establish himself in the first team. He has emerged as one of the finest in his position since moving to RB Leipzig in 2020 from Dinamo Zagreb.

The player's efforts have already turned heads at multiple clubs across the continent. However, the La Liga giants are currently leading the race for his signature.

Although talks with the Bundesliga side are still ongoing, it now appears that Olmo is a step away from a blockbuster return to his old hunting ground. However, Barcelona still have to agree to a deal with Leipzig, which could be complicated given their financial issues.

Nevertheless, the Catalans remain confident of getting their man this summer.

Catalans priced out of Joao Cancelo move

Manchester City want €30m to allow Joao Cancelo to leave this summer, according to Mundo Deportivo. The Portuguese full-back spent last season on loan at Barcelona and had a decent time.

The Catalans would like to sign him permanently this summer but do not have the finances to complete a move. They are hoping to take the 30-year-old on a second loan deal but City are adamant about a permanent exit.

The Premier League champions' asking price, coupled with the player's wages, makes a move impossible this summer. There's already interest in Cancelo from the Middle East, although he would prefer to return to Camp Nou.

The Portuguese is no longer part of Pep Guardiola's plans at the Etihad and a solution will have to be reached this summer. A lot will now depend on his agent Jorge Mendes.