Barcelona are pressing ahead with their summer transfer plans as Hansi Flick looks to reshape the squad for the 2025/26 campaign, and one of the club’s top priorities remains the signing of Spain international Nico Williams.
The Athletic Club winger has been a long-term target for the Catalan giants, and with his €62 million release clause now deemed within reach, Barcelona are reportedly preparing to trigger it at the beginning of July.
Despite financial constraints, president Joan Laporta has insisted that the club are working within La Liga’s 1:1 rule and will be able to make and register new signings during the window.
Tensions, however, have escalated in recent days following reports that Athletic Club plan to formally challenge the transfer and ask La Liga to block the move.
Now, Joan Laporta has responded directly to the speculation — and his comments suggest Barcelona will not be backing down.
Speaking to Mundo Deportivo via Barca Blaugranes, Laporta said: “We don’t have bad relations with Athletic.
“Yes, there have been a series of misunderstandings and incidents in recent years, but you can’t say we have bad relations.
“We are two clubs with a very long history and with relationships that go back a long time.”
He continued by questioning Athletic Club’s recent stance: “I don’t understand the reactions they are having, with all due respect.
Want to get the latest Barcelona news direct to your phone? Join our WhatsApp community by clicking here.
“Each one should look after their own.
“I don’t understand why they are going to talk about Barca in La Liga.
“I don’t think it’s right, but they will know what they are doing.”
Laporta also addressed financial concerns surrounding the 1:1 spending rule, saying: “We are working to be in the 1:1 rule.
“We were already in it in the winter market.
“All the steps have been taken to be able to sign normally, to not be financially intervened with the ‘fair play’ as happened until winter.
“We have to comply with certain parameters, which is what we are doing, and depending on that, we will be able to sign and register the two players we want to sign… or register.”
Barcelona remain confident of completing the Nico Williams deal, with plans to integrate him into pre-season training once the clause is activated.
Want to get the latest Barcelona news direct to your phone? Join our WhatsApp community by clicking here.
