Nico Williams has been a target for FC Barcelona since last season, when the winger ultimately chose to extend his contract with Athletic Bilbao, turning down a move to the Camp Nou. Now, circumstances have shifted, and both Lamine Yamal and Alejandro Balde are fueling renewed rumors surrounding a potential €58 million transfer.
After last year’s failed pursuit, speculation reignited when Williams’ agent, Felix Tainta, met with Barcelona sporting director Deco last Friday, despite the player reportedly receiving multiple offers from other clubs. With the talks underway, Barcelona’s own players were quick to stir the buzz.
Lamine Yamal was the first to fan the flames, taking to Instagram following Friday’s meeting to post a photo of himself and Williams hugging and celebrating a goal while playing for Spain’s national team. But Yamal wasn’t the only one to get involved.
Alejandro Balde, widely known as one of Nico Williams’ closest friends, liked an Instagram post reporting that “Hansi Flick is determined to sign Nico Williams,” according to Florian Plettenberg. With the two Barcelona youngsters publicly hinting at their desire to welcome Williams, it’s clear his arrival would be well received in the locker room.
Nico Williams’ signing presents financial challenges for Barcelona
Barcelona’s ongoing financial struggles have been well documented in recent years, with the club navigating several complicated registration issues, including last season’s cases involving Dani Olmo and Pau Victor. As a result, the Catalan giants are approaching this summer’s transfer dealings with extra caution.
see also
Luis Suárez responds to Cristiano Ronaldo’s comment on Lamine Yamal’s future
According to Fabrizio Romano, Williams has made Barcelona his top priority, prompting the club to seriously explore the possibility of triggering the deal. However, his €58 million release clause remains a significant financial hurdle for Barcelona to overcome.
Compared to other transfer targets like Luis Diaz, Williams’ situation offers a slight advantage, as his release clause means Barcelona won’t need to negotiate with Athletic Bilbao—only with the player himself.
According to Plettenberg, club president Joan Laporta is now evaluating whether the transfer is financially viable and whether Williams can be registered under current salary cap restrictions. If Barcelona can successfully navigate these financial obstacles, the path will be clear for Williams to join the Blaugrana.
