Barcelona, Spain - FC Barcelona has significantly stepped up its efforts to sign Athletic Bilbao's explosive winger, Nico Williams. Recent developments, including a high-stakes meeting and a direct conversation with new head coach Hansi Flick, have positioned the Catalan club as a serious contender for the 22-year-old's signature, igniting a potential summer transfer saga.
According to multiple reports, Barcelona's sporting director, Deco, met with Williams' agent, Felix Tainta, on Friday to discuss a potential move. This was reportedly followed by a phone call from Flick to the Spanish international, where the new manager outlined his project and expressed his desire to have Williams in his squad for the upcoming season.
These aggressive moves from Barcelona signal a clear intent to secure the talented winger, who has a reported release clause in the region of €60-62 million. Williams, known for his blistering pace, dribbling prowess, and versatility on either flank, is said to be "crazy" about the prospect of joining Barcelona, where he would team up with close friends and Spanish national teammates Lamine Yamal and Alejandro Balde.
The interest in Williams is not limited to Barcelona. Premier League giants Arsenal and Chelsea, along with German champions Bayern Munich, have also been closely monitoring the situation. However, Barcelona's recent proactive approach, coupled with Williams' apparent preference for a move to Camp Nou, may give them an edge in the race for his services.
During the 2024/25 season with Athletic Bilbao, Williams continued to impress, contributing significantly with goals and assists. His strong performances have also solidified his place in the Spanish national team set-up, further enhancing his reputation as one of Europe's most exciting young talents.
While the financial intricacies of the deal, particularly the upfront payment of the release clause, could present a hurdle for Barcelona, the club's renewed determination suggests they are exploring all avenues to make the transfer a reality. As the summer transfer window heats up, the future of Nico Williams promises to be one of the most compelling narratives to follow.
