Barcelona 'identify' 22-year-old Championship star as Nico Williams alternative

Barcelona are reportedly considering making a move for Hull City forward Jaden Philogene during this summer's transfer window.

The 22-year-old came through the youth system at Aston Villa, progressing to first-team level in 2021, but he only made six senior appearances for the club before moving on.

Philogene spent time on loan with both Stoke City and Cardiff City during his time at Villa, but he joined Hull on a permanent basis during last summer's transfer window.

The attacker was in strong form for the Tigers during the 2023-24 campaign, scoring 12 goals and registering six assists in 32 Championship appearances.

Philogene has a contract at Hull until June 2026, with the option of a further 12 months, but there has been speculation surrounding his future during the early stages of the summer transfer window.

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Barcelona 'interested in Hull's Philogene'

According to Relevo, Barcelona view Philogene as an alternative to Nico Williams, should a move for the Athletic Bilbao forward prove to be too expensive this summer.

Williams is believed to favour a move to Camp Nou over any other club, with Liverpool and Arsenal said to be among the Premier League teams keen on his signature.

The 21-year-old is thought to have a release clause of around €55m (£47m) in his Athletic deal, which could prove to be difficult for Barcelona to meet due to their off-the-field issues.

Philogene is allegedly viewed by Barcelona as a genuine alternative, with discussions between the two clubs already thought to have taken place.

The report claims that Raphinha could move on this summer, which would put Hansi Flick's side in the market for at least one forward.

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Is a deal for Philogene a serious possibility?

It would be some story if Philogene left Hull for Barcelona, but he did enjoy a strong 2023-24 campaign, coming up with 12 goals and six assists in the Championship.

It is not quite the eye-catching signing that the Barcelona fans would have had in mind, especially if Raphinha leaves, with the Brazilian in strong form last season.

Philogene's ability to operate on both the right and the left of a front three is likely to make him an even more attractive proposition for Barcelona.

The forward would also certainly be cheaper than some of their other targets in the final third, including Williams, and the club's off-the-field issues will restrict them again this summer.

Philogene's form towards the end of last season was particularly impressive, managing four goals in his last seven Championship appearances of the campaign.