Zenit Saint Petersburg, a team in the Russian Premier League, gave an explanation for why they were “happy to help” Barcelona in their pursuit of Nico Williams in one of the week’s more surprising occurrences.
After reaching a six-year personal agreement with the Spain international, Barcelona is close to signing Williams from Athletic Bilbao.
But before the player can formally join Barca, a number of challenges must be resolved, according to Guillem Balague of the BBC.
Barcelona is happy to activate his €62 million (£53 million) release clause, but Athletic is anxious that it be paid in full. They are set to suggest an installment payment plan.
“Bilbao is at loggerheads with Barca, and despite the player’s desire for a friendly exit, everything points to the Bilbao side clinging to the clause and its full payment through La Liga,” according to SPORT in Spain.
Zenit Saint Petersburg, a Russian team, has contributed money to the signing amid the current transfer issue, writing on TikTok, “For Nico Williams from Zenit.”
The donation undoubtedly caused some controversy, but the Zenit administrator provided an explanation of the gift-giving process after a Barcelona fan account shared a screenshot of the transaction on X, writing: “You gave us Malcom, so happy to help!”
Malcom, a Brazilian winger, reportedly paid £36.5 million to join Zenit from Barcelona in 2019. Before moving to Saint Petersburg, he made 24 appearances for the La Liga team, scoring just four goals.
He would later play more than 100 games for Zenit, and in 2022–2023 he was the leading scorer in the Russian Premier League as they won the title.
In 2023, the 28-year-old winger was transferred for almost €60 million to Al Hilal of the Saudi Pro League.
Zenit donated to Barcelona on TikTok as they get closer to signing Nico Williams. Picture courtesy of X/@fczenit_en
Raphinha took up the role during Barca’s league-winning heroics last season, so Williams will have competition for a starting slot if he moves.
Marcus Rashford, a forward for Manchester United who has been linked to a move to Camp Nou this summer, might also be on the same pitch as him.
Because he can play all three attacking positions and may be an excellent replacement for Lewandowski, Mundo Deportivo really suggests Rashford is still interested in joining the Spanish team.
What do you think about Williams maybe moving to Barcelona? Tell us in the comments section.
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