Nico Williams's future continues to generate uncertainty. The Athletic Club winger has been one of FC Barcelona's biggest desires since last summer. But the Catalan club couldn't finalize his signing due to issues with financial fair play.
Since then, Joan Laporta's management has worked on improving the economic situation with the hope of incorporating him in 2025. However, in recent weeks, the story has taken an unexpected turn. Nico Williams has hinted that his destination might not be Camp Nou, but Santiago Bernabéu.
Barça remains alert to Nico Williams
Last summer, Barça tried to sign him at all costs; his speed, dribbling, and youth made him the ideal reinforcement for the blaugrana attack. However, Athletic managed to convince him to stay at least one more season. His participation in the Europa League and the possibility of continuing to play alongside his brother Iñaki weighed in his final decision.
Despite this, Barça hasn't given up on signing him. The sports planning still considers him a priority for the next season. But in recent weeks, the player has started sending signals that have put the Catalan club on alert.
Statements that bring him closer to Real Madrid
Nico Williams has long been linked with Real Madrid. Although his name hasn't resonated as strongly in the white environment as in the blaugrana, his recent statements have fueled the rumors.
During the last European Championship, when Barça's interest was at its peak, he surprised by declaring that he would like to play with Kylian Mbappé someday. Those words caused controversy in Barcelona and now make even more sense.
A few days ago, in a chat with Futbol Emotion, Nico Williams made another comment that has set off alarms. When asked about his favorite Nike player, his reply was clear: Cristiano Ronaldo.
Cristiano, Mbappé, and a possible future at Bernabéu
While the reply may seem innocent, many have interpreted this as a nod to Real Madrid. In Barcelona, it hasn't gone unnoticed that, among so many players who have passed through Nike, he chose precisely the former white player. Additionally, journalist Talha Ahmad has claimed that "Nico is for Madrid," which has added even more uncertainty about his future.
These indications have made some at Barça start to doubt whether the player really wants to wear the blaugrana or if he is waiting for an offer from the white team.
At the culé club, they still consider Nico Williams a key piece for the future. However, his latest statements have caused doubts. Unlike other footballers who have openly shown their desire to play for Barça, the winger has avoided doing so on several occasions.
If Real Madrid decides to enter the bidding, the operation would become much more complicated. Florentino Pérez has greater economic leeway and could convince the player with an irresistible offer.
A signing that depends on his decision
As of today, Nico Williams still belongs to Athletic Club, and his future remains open. Barça maintains its interest, but the player has yet to make clear what his true intention is.
The final decision will be his. If he truly wants to play at Camp Nou, he will have to reject any offer from Madrid and wait for Barça to be able to afford his signing.
But if his nods to Real Madrid are more than just words, Barcelona might be forced to look for another alternative for their attack. The Nico Williams saga is far from over.