Barcelona Face Setback in Nico Williams Pursuit as Athletic Club Prepare Contract Extension
As Athletic Club gets ready to offer the gifted Spain international a contract deal, Barcelona’s relentless pursuit of Nico Williams can encounter another obstacle. Williams is still a target for the Catalan powerhouses, who were unable to sign him during the summer. With a new contract that extends his stay until 2027, Athletic Club is allegedly certain they can retain the 22-year-old winger at San Mamés.
Given their current budgetary constraints, Barcelona would face a major obstacle if Williams signed a new contract. His buyout clause will be increased to around €60 million (£50.6m/$65m) under the planned contract, which Barcelona would find difficult to pay. Barcelona may be discouraged by this restriction, particularly as they wait for a significant cash boost from an expected Nike sponsorship deal that would enable them to sign new players.
A Lost Chance for a Yamal-Williams Pair?
Williams and Spain’s budding talent Lamine Yamal might have a bright relationship if he decides to stay at Athletic. Fans may have to wait longer to watch the young Spanish wingers play together at Camp Nou because of Barcelona’s uncertain financial future. As Barcelona evaluates its financial situation and Athletic proceeds with their retention plan for Williams, the upcoming months will probably be pivotal.
