La Liga club intensify efforts to renew €70 million-rated Barcelona winger target

The Nico Williams situation is far from resolved. FC Barcelona tried hard to sign the 22-year-old winger from Athletic Club last summer, but ultimately failed in their efforts.

However, the Spanish international winger’s contractual situation remains attractive to many clubs as his deal with the Basque club expires in 2027 and maintains a release clause slightly above €60 million.

Barcelona, for their part, remain interested in acquiring his services in the summer of 2025 but Athletic Club have other plans.

Athletic Club push Nico Williams to renew

Indeed, according to SPORT, Athletic Club will fight for Nico Williams’ contract extension and are confident they can compete with any suitor, even as Barcelona remain attentive to his future, a fact his entourage is fully aware of.

Barcelona was very close to signing the 22-year-old in the summer and admit the footballer was open to a change of scenery – hence accepting to discuss contractual terms.

But the difficult situation with the salary cap situation and pressure from Athletic Club derailed any possibility.

The Catalan club had serious hopes of signing the UEFA Euro 2024 winner and have maintained their interest after the summer rejection.

Nico’s entourage is aware of the Barcelona option but no steps have been taken so far. The Blaugrana, for their part, are absolutely clear that any move would depend on the youngster not renewing and maintaining the release clause to have signing options.

The entire situation will unfold from January onwards when the Catalan club believe they will return to the 1:1 rule to operate normally, and this factor would provide much more security to the player and his environment.

Meanwhile, Athletic Club have already hinted at their intention to extend Nico’s contract, and if possible, substantially increase the release clause to figures that would deter his suitors.

Barcelona, for now, will monitor any developments silently. If he does not renew, there will be chances and they will pursue them, aware that Nico would be a significant market coup.

*Player valuation in title obtained from transfermarkt.com on date of publication