Africans Born Abroad
Countries
Foreign Leagues
Ghana
Latest News
Transfers & Rumours
WAFU B
Zonal Bodies
Athletic Bilbao confirm meeting with Tebas over Barcelona pursuit of Nico Williams
Athletic Bilbao have confirmed holding talks with LaLiga president Javier Tebas to raise concerns over Barcelona’s pursuit of star winger Nico Williams, amid questions surrounding the Catalan club’s financial position.
Williams, who is of Ghanaian descent, has emerged as a top transfer target for Barcelona this summer.
However, Athletic are seeking clarity from league authorities on whether the Blaugrana can legally register new signings under Financial Fair Play (FFP) rules before any formal move is made for the player.
In an official statement released on Thursday, Athletic revealed that club president Jon Uriarte met with Tebas in Madrid this week.
The discussions focused on FFP compliance and the economic conditions required for Barcelona to complete player registrations—an issue of growing significance as Barça’s sporting director Deco continues to express interest in activating Williams’s €58 million release clause.
Deco’s public remarks have frustrated Athletic, who believe such comments are inappropriate given Barcelona’s current financial limitations. The Basque club reportedly sought reassurances that all LaLiga clubs, including Barcelona, would be held to the same regulatory standards when it comes to new acquisitions.
“Athletic Club appreciates the availability and clarity of LaLiga in responding to our concerns,” the club said in its statement. “We reaffirm our commitment to ensuring fair competition and respecting the established rules that govern the league.”
The statement concluded with a pointed message: “Taking care of your own affairs means ensuring that the championship rules are respected.”
The escalating tension highlights the broader financial challenges facing Spanish football, where clubs like Athletic Bilbao are increasingly pushing for transparency and enforcement of spending regulations, especially as wealthier rivals attempt to recruit key players without demonstrating the means to comply fully with FFP.
