Athletic Club’s star winger, Nico Williams, has officially declared his intent to join a new club this summer.
The 22-year-old has shocked the streets of Bilbao and sparked panic at the Basque club, who were hoping to resign the player and keep him amid transfer speculation.
Nico Williams and the €62 million release clause have dominated discussions, according to journalist Edu Velasco Jr on El Chiringuito TV.
Williams, who was exceptional for Spain at UEFA Euro 2024, has reported agreed to personal terms with Barcelona on a six-year contract, which shows an intention towards a commitment to the La Liga champions.
Williams’ agent, Felix Tainta, has met with Barca’s sporting director Deco several times, with their last meeting being in Ibiza, continuing to progress talks in a positive direction.
Williams’ desire to be involved is evident, as he rejected multiple offers from Bayern Munich and other Premier League clubs, with Williams instead choosing a move to Barcelona to join his friends Lamini Yamal and Alejandro Balde.
However, Barcelona’s pursuit of Williams remains complicated. Athletic Club wants the €62 million in full, which is difficult for Barcelona with limited finances.
Additionally, the clubs are not on good terms after some prior disputes that complicate negotiations.
Still, Barcelona is hopeful that they can find the finances needed to register Williams while avoiding significant sales.
Coach Hansi Flick also had a chance to personally articulate how he would like Williams to be incorporated into the team, which excited the winger even more.
While Williams aspires to join the club of his dreams, this is still a long way from being finished.
Athletic Club’s resistance and Barcelona’s fanciful financial wrangling will ultimately determine if this transfer will actualize, but it is clear Williams intends to wear the Blaugrana jersey.
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