Nico Williams Commits Future To Athletic Club With Long-Term Contract Amid Barcelona Interest

‎Athletic Club announced on Friday that Nico Williams has signed an eight-year contract extension, keeping him at the club until 2035.

‎This move effectively ends speculation about a possible transfer to Barcelona. Williams, who has been with the club since 2013, is now under a new deal that increases his release clause significantly.

‎The clause has risen by more than 50%, now amounting to nearly 80 million euros.

‎Speaking about his new deal, Williams said, “When it comes to making decisions, for me, the most important thing is to listen to your heart. I am where I want to be, with my people, this is my home.”

‎Due to registration issues, a move to Barcelona will not be possible this summer, according to Fabrizio Romano. Williams, who plays alongside his brother Inaki at San Mames, made his debut for Athletic Club in 2021.

‎Since then, he has developed significantly, making 131 LaLiga appearances and scoring 16 goals. He has also scored 15 goals in other competitions during his time at the club.

‎He has also represented Spain at an international level, playing a major part in his country’s run to the European Championship title in 2024.

‎Athletic Club finished fourth in LaLiga last season, qualifying for the Champions League in the process. They also made the Europa League semi-finals last year, eventually bowing out to Manchester United.

‎Meanwhile, Barcelona has been pursuing Williams throughout the summer and now will have to search for an alternative for their pacey winger.

‎Reports indicate that negotiations with Liverpool’s Luis Diaz have fallen through, forcing the club to go back to the drawing board in their search for their next target.