Nico Williams has reportedly told Athletic Club he intends to leave the club this summer to join La Liga champions Barcelona, setting the stage for one of the most high-profile moves in Spanish football during the transfer window.
Williams, who has Ghanaian heritage despite representing Spain at international level, has long been linked with a switch to Camp Nou.
After years of speculation, it appears a breakthrough has finally arrived as all parties begin working toward finalising the transfer.
According to respected journalist Fabrizio Romano, the 22-year-old has formally communicated his decision to Athletic, with Barcelona sporting director Deco having held direct talks with the winger to secure his commitment.
The Catalan giants are convinced the player wants the move, and Williams is said to be equally enthusiastic about linking up with new manager Hansi Flick.
However, completing the deal will not be straightforward. Athletic Club are standing firm on their valuation and insist that the €58 million release clause be paid in full and upfront, rejecting the possibility of payment in instalments.
That condition presents a significant challenge to Barcelona, who continue to grapple with persistent financial issues that may force the club to sell players before completing the move.
Williams, a key figure for both Athletic Club and the Spanish national team, would bring pace, creativity, and a direct attacking threat to Barcelona’s flanks—a profile that has been missing since the departure of Ousmane Dembélé.
The Blaugrana view Williams as a long-term solution and a marquee signing that fits both their sporting ambitions and youth-focused project.
Talks are expected to intensify in the coming days, with the deal potentially becoming one of the defining transfers of the window if Barcelona can meet Athletic’s financial demands.
