Barcelona moves closer to securing one of Spain’s brightest young talents as Nico Williams agrees personal terms on long-term contract
Barcelona is edging closer to one of the most anticipated signings of the summer transfer window as Athletic Bilbao star Nico Williams has reportedly agreed to personal terms with the Catalan giants. The Spanish international is said to have accepted a six-year contract with the Blaugrana, in a deal that would see him stay at the club until 2031.
According to leading transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Williams has reached a full agreement with Barcelona regarding the length and financial terms of his contract, including an annual salary estimated to be in the region of €7–8 million net. The final hurdle now remains for Barça to strike a formal agreement with Athletic Bilbao over the transfer fee.
“Nico Williams and Barça have agreed personal terms on 6-year deal,” Romano revealed in a post on X (formerly Twitter) on Thursday. “Agreement sealed on player’s contract until June 2031 with the salary in the region of €7/8m net per season. Barça are currently working on financial terms to get deal done with Athletic.”
A Long-Awaited Move for Williams
The 21-year-old winger, who has emerged as one of the most exciting talents in Spanish football over the past two seasons, is reportedly eager to make the switch to the Camp Nou. After a proposed move failed to materialize last year due to financial constraints at the Catalan club, Williams is now pushing to ensure that the transfer goes through this summer.
Sources close to the negotiations suggest that Williams is determined to join Hansi Flick’s side, where he would link up with a growing contingent of young Spanish stars including Lamine Yamal, Pedri, and Gavi. Barcelona view the winger as a key piece in their ongoing rebuild, as they aim to recapture domestic and European glory under their new manager.
Williams has been in sensational form for Athletic Club over the past year, registering nine assists and scoring five goals in LaLiga during the 2024/25 campaign. His pace, creativity, and ability to beat defenders in one-on-one situations have made him a standout performer not just for his club, but also for the Spanish national team.
Barcelona’s Financial Challenge
While personal terms have been agreed, Barcelona still faces the crucial task of negotiating a suitable transfer fee with Athletic Bilbao, a club known for its hardline stance when it comes to player sales. Williams has a release clause believed to be around €50 million, and Athletic are reportedly unwilling to budge on that figure.
Barcelona, for their part, are working carefully to remain within LaLiga’s financial fair play regulations. The club is currently exploring various financial strategies, including structured payments and potential player sales, to make room for Williams’ acquisition.
Joan Laporta, the Barcelona president, has made it clear in recent weeks that the club’s recruitment strategy this summer will focus on “smart, sustainable investment” while prioritizing long-term planning. Bringing in Williams on a six-year deal fits into that vision, especially given the player’s age, marketability, and potential resale value.
What Nico Williams Brings to Barcelona
Born in Pamplona to Ghanaian parents, Nico Williams has become a household name in Spanish football circles due to his dazzling displays on the wing. His versatility allows him to operate on either flank, though he is predominantly used on the left where he can cut inside or whip in dangerous crosses.
Williams’ decision-making, improved finishing, and ability to stretch defenses have drawn comparisons to elite-level wingers across Europe. His chemistry with brother Iñaki Williams at Athletic Bilbao has also been a highlight, though the two could now find themselves on opposing sides of the LaLiga divide.
Barcelona manager Hansi Flick is believed to be a strong supporter of Williams’ dynamic style and sees the youngster as a key player in implementing his high-intensity, attacking philosophy. With veteran winger Raphinha expected to be made available for transfer, Williams could step in as a long-term replacement and contribute to a refreshed attacking setup under Flick’s guidance.
Spain Euro 2024 Star Rising in Value
Nico Williams’ performances with the Spanish national team at the ongoing UEFA Euro 2024 tournament in Germany have further elevated his profile. He was instrumental in Spain’s group-stage victories, with several pundits praising his ability to impact games from the wing and create space for the forwards.
Spanish football journalist Guillem Balague recently stated, “Nico Williams is no longer a promising youngster — he is a game-changer at the highest level. Any club that gets him is investing in a future world-class player.”
If Barcelona manage to finalize the transfer before the end of the tournament, they may secure his signature before his market value rises further.
Waiting on Athletic’s Final Word
As of Thursday evening, Athletic Bilbao had yet to issue an official response regarding Barcelona’s latest financial proposal. However, with the player’s contract set to run until 2027 and no indication of a renewal from Williams’ camp, the Basque club could be forced to consider the offer seriously.
While the saga is still unfolding, there is growing optimism within the Barcelona camp that the deal will be completed in the coming weeks, especially given the player’s willingness to make the switch.
For Barcelona fans, the thought of seeing Nico Williams in the famous Blaugrana shirt next season is an exciting prospect — a sign that the club is not only rebuilding but doing so with elite-level talent poised to dominate for years to come.
