‘Forget about it’ – Barcelona’s message to Nico Williams over Athletic Club renewal

The powers that be at La Liga giants Barcelona have sent an unwavering message the way of chief transfer target Nico Williams.

That’s according to Mundo Deportivo, who have backed the widespread reports across the Spanish media that Barcelona’s pursuit of wide-man Nico looks increasingly likely to come up empty.

The 22-year-old – fresh off playing a starring role for Spain en route to Euro 2024 glory – has long been identified as the missing piece of new Blaugrana head coach Hansi Flick’s front-three.

Deco and his team of directors, as a result, have long been locked in negotiations with Williams, and his entourage.

To date, however, a long-awaited breakthrough in talks has not been found.

And as much, it would appear, comes owing to growing uncertainty on the part of the player himself.

As per the aforementioned MD:

‘Athletic Club are pressuring him to continue at their club.’ Not only that, but ‘the player is considering one more year at San Mamés.’

In the case of Nico opting to staying put, the expectation is that he would also put pen to paper on a new contract, featuring a vastly improved wage packet.

Significantly, as much would give rise to a new release clause, too, taking Nico’s value from €58 million, to a hefty €100 million.

And, in the process, Barcelona would be ruled out of the running for the Spaniard’s signature.

‘Barcelona have already informed the player that for that amount he can forget about playing for them,’ Mundo Deportivo conclude.

Conor Laird | GSFN