FC Barcelona are intensifying their bid to sign Spanish Ghanaian international Nico Williams, yet Athletic Club are mounting strong resistance in a tense transfer standoff.
Barça have reportedly made significant progress in talks, with reports suggesting a six-year contract agreement in principle.
Despite competition from clubs such as Bayern Munich, prepared to trigger his release clause and offer a substantial salary, Williams appears committed to heading to Camp Nou.
Athletic Club, however, have launched a counter-strategy to retain their prized youth product. According to Mundo Deportivo, the Basque club have tabled an enhanced contract proposal for Williams, including a salary increase, sporting assurances, and a guaranteed leadership position within the team.
Bilbao’s management hopes these incentives will persuade him to remain with the club that developed him.
Tensions in Bilbao have escalated amid Barça’s persistent pursuit. Athletic officials have criticised Barcelona’s approach as overly aggressive, while local media have questioned Williams’ silence, suggesting he should reaffirm his loyalty publicly.
The situation intensified after a mural depicting Nico and his brother Iñaki was vandalised, prompting Iñaki to denounce the act and defend his sibling. “My brother deserves to be able to choose his future in peace,” he declared.
Despite the controversy, Barcelona continue their pursuit discreetly yet decisively. Manager Hansi Flick is said to view Williams as a near-perfect fit for his tactical system, valuing his pace, technical skills, and high-pressing style.
Moreover, Williams shares close bonds with existing Barça stars such as Pedri, Lamine Yamal, Ferran Torres, and Alejandro Balde from their time together in the Spanish national setup, making integration into the squad smoother.
Yet, no transfer has been officially confirmed. Athletic Club remain resolute, delivering what appears to be a final push to persuade Williams to stay in Bilbao.
The coming days are expected to be decisive as both clubs intensify their efforts.
Williams, capped multiple times by Spain and instrumental in their Euro 2024 success including a goal in the final, now finds himself at the centre of a high-stakes tug-of-war.
He was born in Pamplona to Ghanaian parents and opted to represent Spain at senior level, even while his elder brother Iñaki chose to play for Ghana.
A move to Barcelona would see Williams take a significant step up, joining one of Europe’s most prestigious clubs under a manager prioritising dynamic, young talent.
Athletic Club, meanwhile, are eager not to lose a player who has become a symbolic and sporting cornerstone.
For Williams, the decision could define the next phase of his career and potentially influence the trajectory of both clubs.
As Barça and Athletic vie for his signature, the winger’s choice will reverberate far beyond the pitch.
