Lamine Yamal’s Barcelona dream dashed as Manchester United targets Nico Williams

Manchester United’s pursuit of Spanish star Nico Williams might shatter Lamine Yamal’s aspirations of playing alongside his national teammate at Barcelona.

The Athletic Bilbao winger, who dazzled on the opposite flank from Yamal during Euro 2024, is poised to become the center of an intense transfer saga.

Despite extending his contract at Athletic Club until 2025, Williams is expected to depart San Mames next summer. Arsenal, Chelsea, and Barcelona were keen on signing the 22-year-old following his stellar performances at Euro 2024 but fell short of luring him away.

Now, according to El Nacional, Manchester United and Paris Saint-Germain have emerged as frontrunners in the race. Barcelona, led by Hansi Flick, reportedly views Williams as a surplus addition, further dimming Yamal’s hopes of forming a lethal wing partnership with his compatriot at Camp Nou.

If United succeeds, Williams’ arrival could reshape their attack, especially with potential departures of Marcus Rashford and Alejandro Garnacho. Meanwhile, Yamal will be left to rue the prospect of a dream collaboration sidelined by market realities.