Nico Williams's future seems to be definitively moving away from FC Barcelona. Athletic's winger has been one of the preferred options for the culé sports management. However, the current economic scenario has forced a different direction.
Despite the interest shown for months, Barça hasn't been able to advance firmly in the operation. The restrictions due to financial fair play and other priorities have completely cooled the negotiations. Meanwhile, the player has started to look for alternatives outside of Spain.
Barça assumes its withdrawal
At Camp Nou, they valued the incorporation of the young international winger very positively. His speed, imbalance, and associative ability made him an ideal piece. Especially considering his fit alongside Lamine Yamal on the flanks.
His age, his progression, and the fact that he knows LaLiga were seen as key factors. But Barça hasn't been able to move with the necessary agility to compete in the market. Now the player isn't willing to wait forever for an offer that doesn't arrive.
Deco and Hansi Flick recognize his quality and would have counted on him without hesitation. However, the 60 million euro clause and his high salary halt any realistic attempt. In a context where every euro counts, Barça prioritizes other urgent needs.
Internal sources indicate that the club seeks to strengthen the goalkeeping and defense if there are departures. Therefore, they have decided to definitively close the chapter on Nico and focus efforts on other objectives. The player himself has already been informed of this decision.
The player seeks to quickly close his future
Nico doesn't want the summer market to become an endless wait. After talking with his entourage, he has chosen to move forward with other more concrete options. The winger wishes to define his future before joining the concentration with the Spanish national team.
The operation is advancing rapidly with one of the major European clubs. The sports project, ambition, and role they offer have been decisive. Additionally, it is a league in which the player has shown interest for some time.
The new destination guarantees him minutes, prominence, and an attractive sports plan. The club leading the negotiation has reached final stages in European competitions this very season. Their coach considers him an essential piece for the new offensive project.
Economically, the proposal is also firm and improves his current contract. The player has shown willingness to change countries if the agreement with his club is finalized. Although there is no closed agreement yet, the conversations are advancing at a good pace.
Athletic already considers his departure a done deal
From Bilbao, they know that retaining him will be almost impossible this summer. The clause is in effect, and the player is determined to try his luck in a team with greater ambition. In any case, Athletic has been clear: they won't negotiate anything below 60 million.
His entourage considers that it is the ideal time to make the definitive leap. The interested club is willing to pay his clause if necessary. The agreement could be closed in a matter of weeks if there are no unexpected setbacks.
Unless there is a last-minute twist, his destination will be the Premier League. The club that has insisted the most in recent weeks is Arsenal. Arteta wants him, and Nico Williams views it favorably.