Forget Barcelona? 180° turn with the future of a winger on the culé radar

Athletic Club would be very close to 'tying up' its main star in the long term. Although Nico Williams renewed at the end of 2023 for four seasons, until June 2027, the Pamplona player's termination clause remained at a figure close to 60 million euros, a low amount considering his current value and projection.

In that sense, the latest information indicates important progress between the 'lions' board and the 21-year-old forward to secure his future in San Mamés. The contract extension would allow the '11' from Bilbao to improve his emoluments (this season he has a net turnover of around 5 million euros), in addition to raising his clause considerably (to more than 100 'kilos').

Nico Williams seems determined to stay in LaLiga

The winger, one of FC Barcelona's priorities to reinforce the left side, would have made this decision for two fundamental factors. On the one hand, the desire to stay in Spain, close to his family and in the club of his life. Nico has had very interesting offers from France and England, but he preferred to stay at least one more season to make his debut in Europe with Ernesto Valverde's team.

The other compelling reason that would lead the youngest Williams to stay in San Mamés is Barça's change of plans for the next market. The Barça board was willing to make an effort to close the signing of Athletic's '11' in the last week of August, but the footballer did not want to wait so as not to compromise his relationship with Athletic and, furthermore, to be able to start the preseason within their planned deadlines.

Barça no longer sees Nico Williams as a market priority

Now, Barça seems to focus on other 'top' alternatives for the left-footed winger (Rafael Leao, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia...) and the Spanish international seems to be relegated to the background, although, financially, he is a much more affordable option for the club. What is certain is that Barça will go for a great reinforcement in 2025 to start the next season in style in a renovated Spotify Camp Nou.

Will Nico Williams be the chosen one? For now, both parties seem further and further away from joining their paths in the future, although everything seemed on track after the last Euro Cup. In any case, Deco continues 'combing' the market in search of the ideal option that fits seamlessly into the lethal Barça attack.