By: Kwame Bediako
Barcelona’s pursuit of Athletic Club winger Nico Williams has suffered a major setback as the 22-year-old has signed a new contract extension with his hometown club, Athletic Bilbao, keeping him at San Mamés until 2035. The announcement effectively ends speculation linking Williams with a move to Catalunya this summer, despite earlier reports that personal terms had been agreed with Barcelona and that the club was preparing to activate his release clause.
The Basque club confirmed the deal with an official statement highlighting that Williams’ release clause has been increased by more than 50%, reportedly pushing it close to €80 million. Williams himself emphasized the emotional nature of his decision, stating, “When decisions have to be made, for me, what weighs most is the heart. I’m where I want to be, with my people, this is my home. Aupa Athletic!”
Barcelona had been strongly linked with Williams throughout the summer transfer window. The Catalan club had reportedly reached an agreement on a six-year contract with the player, offering a lucrative salary to secure his signature.
However, negotiations with Athletic Club over the release clause proved challenging, and the club’s unique financial position allowed it to offer Williams a competitive salary to stay. Barcelona’s complex financial situation and registration issues further complicated the transfer, culminating in the club setting a July 16 deadline to finalise the deal, which ultimately was not met.
Nico Williams’ long-term commitment to Athletic Club marks a significant blow to Barcelona’s summer transfer ambitions. The winger’s renewed contract and increased release clause make a move to Catalunya highly unlikely in the near future, solidifying his role as a key figure in Athletic’s plans to compete domestically and in Europe for years to come.
