Barcelona have reached a personal agreement with Athletic Bilbao star Nico Williams over a six-year deal, edging closer to securing the winger’s signature. However, the Catalan giants still face hurdles before finalising the move.
The 22-year-old Spain international, who netted 11 goals in 41 appearances last season, has drawn interest from several top European clubs, including Arsenal and Bayern Munich. Despite the competition, Williams is reportedly set on a move to Barça, where he would reunite with close friend and international teammate Lamine Yamal.
Williams is said to have personally asked Yamal to support his push for a switch to the Camp Nou. The winger’s release clause at Athletic Club stands at €62 million (£53 million), an amount Barcelona are willing to activate to complete the transfer.
The club previously considered a move for Liverpool’s Luis Díaz but were deterred by the Premier League side’s £80 million price tag. Attention quickly turned to Williams, with sporting director Deco holding successful talks with the player’s camp in Ibiza this week, where a verbal agreement was reached.
Williams’ move follows an outstanding season with Bilbao, in which he played a pivotal role in their qualification for the Champions League and Europa League semi-final run. His campaign ended on a high note after helping Spain win Euro 2024, where he scored the opening goal in their 2-1 final win over England in Berlin.
The deal is now pending final negotiations with Athletic Bilbao and Barcelona’s efforts to navigate Financial Fair Play constraints.
