Barcelona fear PSG will splash more than the €58m release clause amount for Euro 2024 winner

Journalist Fernando Polo, writing for Mundo Deportivo, has shared insights into Barcelona’s concerns and the stiff competition they face from Paris Saint-Germain in pursuit of Nico Williams.

He reports that Barcelona are aware of PSG’s interest, led by their president Nasser Al-Khelaifi and they are of the idea that the Ligue 1 side is willing to pay more than Nico’s release clause – €58 million – to secure his transfer. 

The Blaugrana are aware of the robust sporting and financial offer that PSG has presented, as Luis Enrique, who is familiar with Nico, is reportedly involved in the effort to bring him to Paris.

Barcelona are still calm

Within Barcelona, there is a cautious optimism. They know Nico is excited about the possibility of playing for them. However, they also understand that he has other options, including staying at Athletic Bilbao, where he has a contract until 2027. 

The Catalan club has received reports that PSG’s financial offer is double what they have proposed, but they remain hopeful. They believe that despite the tempting offer from PSG, Nico prioritises joining Barcelona.

Nico Williams is highly likely to leave Athletic Club. (Photo by Rafa Babot/Getty Images)

Contradictory information is circulating, adding to the complexity. Some sources suggest PSG are aggressively pursuing Nico, offering not only a lucrative contract but also proposing to pay Athletic Bilbao an amount well beyond Nico’s release clause. 

PSG’s argument is that moving to Paris could be more beneficial for Nico than joining Barcelona, who are direct competitors of Athletic Bilbao in Spain. 

Athletic Club still want to retain Nico

Meanwhile, Barcelona are aware of the strong sentiment within Athletic Bilbao to retain Nico. The club is reminding him of the upcoming Europa League campaign and the incentive of playing in the final, which is set to be held at their home ground. 

They hope that these factors, along with the possibility of agreeing on a transfer in a year, will convince Nico to stay.

The decision ultimately rests with the player and his family. His parents and older brother Inaki are closely involved in this critical decision-making process. 

Barcelona, eager to finalise the deal, understands that it all hinges on Nico’s choice. They remain confident in his positive disposition towards joining them but acknowledge that no agreement has been reached yet.