BREAKING NEWS: confirmed live by Fabrizio Romano, Barcelona Signs Nico Williams 🚨Achieved a deal 🤝💯 Nico Williams, a winger for Athletic Bilbao, has officially joined Barcelona. This brings Williams back to Spain alongside teammate Lamine Yamal, who they both impressed at Euro 2024.
Barcelona are keen to bring Nico Williams to the Nou Camp next season, reuniting him with his Spain teammate Lamine Yamal after their standout performances in Euro 2024, where Spain claimed victory. Williams, 22, netted two goals and provided one assist during the tournament, while the 17-year-old Yamal added one goal and four assists.
Athletic Bilbao is determined to keep Williams despite interest from top European clubs, including Barcelona. His buyout clause is reportedly £53 million (€63 million), which could be a hurdle for the Catalan club. Bilbao has shown its competitiveness in retaining key players by securing new contracts for other Spain internationals like goalkeeper Unai Simon.
Williams has attracted attention from several clubs, including Chelsea, but his high fee has discouraged potential buyers. During the Euros, Williams avoided discussing his future, frustrating Athletic Bilbao’s management. His impressive performance at the tournament has inevitably sparked speculation about his next move.
The summer transfer window for the Premier League and Scottish Premiership is currently open and will close on August 30 at 11pm in England and 11.30pm in Scotland.