Athletic Club’s Nico Williams was the centerpiece of Spain’s most talked-about transfer saga last year, with Barcelona pushing hard to secure his signature before Euro 2024. However, the 21-year-old winger is determined to avoid a repeat this time around and wants his future settled well ahead of the new season.
Williams remains a highly sought-after talent, drawing attention from several elite European clubs. Although Bayern Munich are no longer in pursuit and Paris Saint-Germain have opted for Khvicha Kvaratskhelia instead, there is no shortage of potential suitors. Liverpool and Chelsea have been mentioned, but the primary contenders appear to be Arsenal and Barcelona.
Arsenal and Barcelona Lead the Race
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is reportedly eager to add Williams to his squad, continuing a pattern of targeting Basque players, with Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi also in his sights.
Barcelona, meanwhile, are still monitoring Williams closely, even though their Director of Football, Deco, is believed to prefer a move for Liverpool’s Luis Diaz.
Despite Deco’s preference, Barcelona remain interested in the Athletic winger. The club is expected to communicate their financial readiness to Williams soon, aiming to avoid uncertainty around their ability to complete the transfer. The Catalan giants are currently facing financial constraints related to their wage cap and a pending €100 million agreement concerning VIP seating at Camp Nou.
Williams Sets Mid-July Deadline
According to Sport, Williams has informed suitors of his desire to have his next destination confirmed by July 15. He reportedly wants to begin preseason either with Athletic or his new club without distractions. Any club aiming to sign him will have to activate his €60 million release clause, a fixed condition for any potential move.
With Barcelona’s financial situation in flux, their pursuit of Williams could hinge on resolving off-pitch matters swiftly. Meanwhile, Arsenal may look to take advantage of the delay, as both clubs weigh their next steps in one of this summer’s most intriguing transfer storylines.
