Barcelona is optimistic that they have cleared the final obstacle in acquiring Nico Williams.
The team from Catalonia has reignited their pursuit of the 22-year-old winger after unsuccessfully attempting to sign him last summer.
Williams played a pivotal role in Spain’s victory at UEFA Euro 2024, yet Barcelona struggled to entice him from the Basque region, marking a significant victory for Athletic Club.
Recently, the scenario has dramatically shifted, with Williams now open to the transfer even as his current team qualifies for the 2025/26 UEFA Champions League.
He has a £51m release clause within his contract at Estadio San Mames, and Athletic Club is firm that they will not settle for anything below that amount amid tense transfer discussions.
The fans of Athletic Club have expressed their frustration towards Williams, even vandalizing a mural dedicated to him and his brother Inaki multiple times, reflecting their discontent regarding his potential departure.
The Nico Williams mural has been destroyed again, this time with the writing: “Nico, leave. We will defend our shield at all times.” pic.twitter.com/a2EoInEggc
— Barça Universal (@BarcaUniversal) June 29, 2025
No agreement has been finalized between the clubs yet, despite Williams’ eagerness to join, though a significant obstacle has been overcome.
When might Barcelona complete the transfer of Nico Williams?
Barcelona is still pursuing financial arrangements to acquire Williams, as Athletic Club has continued to decline the proposed payment plan of the £51m over three years.
Reports suggest that Williams has accepted an annual salary in the range of €7-8m, but financial circumstances are influencing the final contract terms, prompting Williams to voice his concerns to his agents.
According to information from Marca, Williams has reservations about Barcelona’s ability to register him under La Liga’s financial regulations, especially in light of events involving Dani Olmo and Pau Victor at the start of 2025.

The registrations for both players were only possible following injuries in Hansi Flick’s squad, which led to an exception for Olmo, and similar controversies emerged in January.
Williams reportedly expressed similar concerns during Barcelona’s initial offer for him last summer, but has since received reassurance about the club’s financial capacity to finalize the transfer.
La Liga president Javier Tebas has cautioned that the financing of the transfer will be closely monitored, despite Joan Laporta’s confidence in the outcome.
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