For months, Nico Williams's future has been an enigma that has kept the European market on edge. At just 22 years old, the Athletic forward has become one of the most sought-after talents in Europe. But, against all odds, he has decided to move away from LaLiga to make a radical change in his career.
Neither FC Barcelona nor Real Madrid have managed to secure his signing, despite numerous attempts. Both clubs had shown strong interest, but they have encountered economic and personal barriers. Finally, another European giant has taken the lead in this surprising race.
Nico Williams with Athletic | @nicolas_williams9
Barça gives up despite their priority interest
In Barça's case, Nico Williams was identified as a priority to strengthen the team's wings. Hansi Flick endorsed his arrival as an ideal solution to alternate with Lamine Yamal and Raphinha. However, the Catalan club hasn't been able to match the player's salary demands.
The interest was real and persistent, but Barça's economic reality set an insurmountable limit. Nico's request, close to €300,000 per week, left the Catalan entity out of the game. Although his football fit was perfect, the overall cost made it impossible.
Nico Williams wearing Athletic Club's jersey | @nicolas_williams9
Real Madrid also tried to approach the footballer's camp, although they didn't make a formal offer. Los Blancos have other priority targets and weren't willing to enter an exorbitant bidding war. The player himself didn't have a clear preference for Spain's giants.
Nico valued the option of going abroad to grow in a new and demanding environment. His decision to rule out LaLiga reflects an ambition different from what many had desired. Although Athletic want to keep him, the scenario has changed drastically.
Nico Williams with the national team | @nicolas_williams9
They enter the race strongly
The club that has taken the lead is Bayern Munich, determined to revolutionize their attack with young blood. According to German media reports, the Bavarian team sees him as the ideal replacement for Leroy Sané. Nico's speed, dribbling, and youth fit perfectly with the plans of the new coach, Vincent Kompany.
Negotiations have progressed rapidly, with constant contact between the player's camp and the German board. Bayern are willing to take on his salary, and they've already prepared an offer of around €70 million. Everything seems aligned for the Spaniard to swap San Mamés for the Allianz Arena.
Nico Williams with Athletic | @athleticclub
Despite everything, Athletic Club haven't given up and are preparing an offensive to keep their gem. In Bilbao, they're working on a contract renewal with star conditions, including a salary close to what Bayern are offering. In addition, qualifying for the Champions League has become a key factor to convince him.
The Basque side know this could be their last chance to keep Nico as the project's reference point. They're offering him a leading role, a solid project, and a substantial improvement to his current contract. Even so, the player is seriously considering a change of scenery and experiencing a new international adventure.
Nico Williams with the national team | @nicolas_williams9
A decision that shakes up the summer market
Nico Williams's possible move to Bayern would leave Barça and Madrid reeling, as they already saw him as unattainable. His decision marks a shift in trend, with the major foreign leagues gaining ground over LaLiga. It shows that economic appeal weighs more than ever in these kinds of moves.
Meanwhile, in Munich, they're already excited about a signing that could be one of the biggest moves of the summer. If nothing changes, Nico will wear red next season and make the leap to a league that will demand the most from him. The talent from San Mamés has a new destination, and no one saw it coming.
