Nico Williams Sends Clear Message to FC Barcelona – Ready to Move This Summer

Nico Williams has made his intentions clear: he is ready to join FC Barcelona this summer. The Athletic Bilbao winger is now fully convinced of the move and has communicated his willingness to accept the terms previously offered by the Catalan club. According to reports, Barcelona manager Hansi Flick personally called Williams to explain the club’s project and vision.

This direct approach appears to have played a key role in swaying the player’s decision. Williams is prepared to accept a salary of €12 million gross per year (€6.5 million net), the same offer Barcelona presented last year. This signals a significant shift in his stance after previously hesitating to commit.

The 22-year-old’s agent recently met with Barcelona’s sporting director, Deco, in a meeting reportedly initiated by Williams himself. This suggests the player is actively pushing for the transfer, despite interest from other top European clubs. Financially, Barcelona still faces hurdles. La Liga’s strict salary cap means the club must find creative solutions, such as deferred payments or performance-based incentives,

to register Williams without breaching regulations. On the pitch, Williams would bring speed, creativity, and attacking flair—qualities that align with Flick’s tactical approach. His existing chemistry with Lamine Yamal, forged during Spain’s Euro 2024 campaign, adds further appeal.

However, Athletic Bilbao remains firm. Williams has a contract until 2027 with a €58 million release clause, and the Basque club is prepared to offer him an improved deal to stay. Competition for his signature is fierce. Bayern Munich, Arsenal, and Chelsea are all monitoring the situation, potentially driving up the price or complicating Barcelona’s pursuit. Barcelona does have alternatives, including Liverpool’s Luis Díaz, but Williams appears to be the priority.

His age, potential, and fit within Flick’s system make him an ideal target. The coming weeks will be crucial. Barcelona must finalize sales or restructure finances to meet La Liga’s requirements, while Williams must decide whether to force a move or remain at Bilbao.

If the deal goes through, Williams could become a cornerstone of Barcelona’s new era under Flick. But with financial constraints and rival interest, this transfer saga is far from over.