FC Barcelona Still Has Nico Williams on Their List of Priority Reinforcements, but Negotiations Are Getting Complicated. Athletic Club's winger demands a salary on par with what Bayern Munich offers, which has put the blaugrana club in a difficult situation.
A Talent That Keeps Growing
At just 22 years old, Nico Williams has established himself as one of the most unbalancing wingers in LaLiga. His speed, dribbling, and ability to create danger have made him a key player for both Athletic Club and the Spanish national team.
Barça sees him as an ideal complement for their attack, but they know it won't be an easy signing. Bayern Munich has entered the race for his signing with strength, and their financial offer is far superior to what the blaugrana club can offer.
According to sources close to the negotiation, Nico Williams has asked Barça to match Bayern's offer, which is around 10 million euros net per season. This would make him one of the three highest-paid players on the squad, only behind Robert Lewandowski and Frenkie de Jong.
For Barça, this is a major obstacle. The club is still in the process of economic recovery and is not in a position to take on such a high salary, especially without having made significant sales.
Is Nico Williams's Signing Viable?
FC Barcelona doesn't doubt Nico's talent or what he could bring to the team, but they are clear that they can't jeopardize their financial stability for a single player.
The winger would have to compete with Raphinha and Lamine Yamal for minutes, so his salary demand is also seen as a way to guarantee himself a leading role. If Barça doesn't meet his request, Bayern could take him without issues.
Additionally, the blaugrana club must comply with financial fair play rules, which limits their room for maneuver in negotiations. Although Williams's release clause is 58 million euros, the real problem lies in his high salary cost.
Barça Seeks Alternatives
If Nico Williams's signing doesn't materialize, Barça has other options on the agenda. Deco and the sports management are closely following other wingers, such as Rafael Leao or Luis Díaz, although both have an even higher price.
Another possible scenario is to seek an agreement with Nico Williams, offering him a progressive salary that increases over time. However, with Bayern's million-euro offer on the table, convincing the player won't be easy.
The Final Decision on Nico Williams's Future Will Be Made in the Coming Months. The player dreams of playing for Barça, but he also wants to be economically valued as a star.
If Bayern continues to press with an unattainable offer, Barça will have to decide whether to adjust their proposal or abandon the race for one of the most promising wingers in soccer.