Barcelona star reacts to Nico Williams transfer snub

Barcelona centre-back Inigo Martinez has insisted it is "fine" if Nico Williams continues to develop with current employers Athletic Club.

Williams was one of Barca's top targets this summer but, after a well-publicised pursuit, the winger ultimately decided to snub all the interest in his services, including from Arsenal and Chelsea, in favour of staying put.

La Liga's second round of fixtures brought the two sides together and Barca fans made no secret of their frustrations towards Williams' decision, booing the 22-year-old from the first whistle to the last.

Former Athletic defender Martinez tried to play peacemaker after the game, insisting Williams will blossom into an excellent player regardless of his club.

"Nico is going to continue growing, if it is in another team, fine and if it is in Athletic, also fine," he said. "The decision will always be his. I will support him in everything that is needed at any given moment."

After Barca's eventual victory, Williams was spotted embracing Blaugrana boss Hansi Flick, who was predictably asked about his conversation with the 22-year-old.

"I just congratulated him on the Euros," Flick said about the Spain superstar. "I don't like to talk about rivals."

Williams remains on Barca's radar but any hopes of a late bid appear to have faded, with the Catalan giants still struggling to register new signing Dani Olmo.

Ilkay Gundogan has re-joined Manchester City, Mikayil Faye was sold to Rennes and both Vitor Roque and Clement Lenglet have departed on loan, but Barca do not yet have the salary space needed to register the midfielder.

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