Barcelona ready to pay top target’s €58m release clause, salary could be an issue

Nico Williams is arguably the hottest prospect in Europe right now, especially following his blazing performances in Euro 2024.

Nico’s partnership with Lamine Yamal on the flanks has raised many eyebrows, which has compelled Barcelona to eye a move for the Athletic Club starlet this summer.

Nico, in fact, has been identified as Barcelona’s priority target for the summer, though they are open to other alternatives.

Barcelona ready to pay Nico’s release clause

A recent report from Cadena SER has offered an interesting update on Barcelona’s pursuit of Nico Williams, suggesting that the club are exploring ways to sign the Spaniard.

As per the report, Barça consider Nico’s €58 million price tag to be a reasonable one as there is no such player available in the market for such a price.

Barcelona ideally want to negotiate with Athletic Club but are aware of the fact that the Spanish outfit will not lower its demands.

Barça are willing to pay €58 million for the services of Nico, but in order to facilitate the move, the club must solve its economic problems.

Can Barcelona sign Nico?

The sale of existing stars is a key economic lever Barcelona are likely to utilise, in their bid to sign Nico Williams this summer.

Barça do not see this as a challenge as there are multiple players in the first-team, who can leave for a fee of at least €60 million this summer.

However, the trickiest part for the Catalans will be the salary. Barcelona are not in a position to compete with English clubs when it comes to offering Nico a lucrative contract.

Keeping that in mind, the Blaugrana want the player to showcase his commitment to joining Barcelona by not forcing a bidding war and agreeing a move to Camp Nou this summer.