It's no longer a secret. It's been known since last week that FC Barcelona has made Nico Williams their priority at left winger to strengthen their position this summer. The options of Luis Diaz (Liverpool), too expensive, Marcus Rashford (Manchester United), too uncertain, and Ivan Perisic (end of contract at PSV), not prestigious enough, are now relegated to second place. All efforts are focused on the 2024 European champion, with whom a preliminary agreement has been reached , according to our information.
It was after the Euro that Barça started knocking on the Basque club's door. The Leones didn't appreciate the media game played by the Blaugranas at all. They leaked information to the press to put pressure on Bilbao 's management and allow them to let their best player go. He ultimately stayed for the simple reason that Barça couldn't pay his €58 million release clause.
Athletic still has a grudge against Barça
It still looks complicated for this summer, but not impossible . At least one big sale will have to be made because at the same time, Joan Laporta and his team have just signed a check for €25 million corresponding to the amount of Joan Garcia's release clause at Espanyol. According to Marca and Sport , a solution could come from Athletic if the club agrees to be paid in installments. But as both media outlets point out, this is not an option for Jon Uriarte, the Basque president, still scalded by last year's episode.
The latter has begun to mourn Nico Williams , under contract until 2027, which he still hoped to extend at the beginning of last week , and increase his release clause. On the other hand, it is out of the question for him to arrange the Barcelona players. If they want the 22-year-old player, they will have to pay the €58 million in one go and it is non-negotiable rather than a staggered payment. As for Joan Garcia. Laporta, who promised Wednesday another imminent arrival after the goalkeeper , must quickly find a solution, if possible before July 14, the date of the resumption of training at Athletic.
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