Nico Williams bombshell! Spain star says 'YES' to summer transfer

Cameron Smith

• 11 Aug 2024 19:00 BST
• 3 min read

Athletic Club winger Nico Williams has reportedly told Barcelona that he wants to join the club this summer.

Williams, 22, has been heavily linked with a summer move, however recent reports have suggested that he will remain at Athletic until at least 2025.

Upon his return from Euro 2024, the Spain international told the club’s supporters: “Aupa Athleticzales! I'm back! Can't wait for the new season!”

READ MORE: Premier League summer transfers 2024 - All the Done Deals

Furthermore, it was widely reported that he would stay at Athletic Club for the upcoming campaign, despite interest from Barcelona, Arsenal and Chelsea.

However, multiple reports from Spain over the past week have stated that Barcelona remain determined to sign Williams.

The Blaugrana have completed the signing of RB Leipzig attacking midfielder Dani Olmo, but this reportedly hasn’t restricted their ability to land Williams too.

READ MORE: Six alternatives to Nico Williams for Barcelona

Hansi Flick’s side are refusing to take no for an answer and are pushing to complete a deal for the Athletic Club winger before the 2024 summer transfer window ends.

Now, a stunning report from Spanish outlet Sport suggests that Williams has told Barcelona officials that he wants to join the club this summer.

Barca will need to pay his €58 million release clause in full, but Joan Laporta has previously stated that this will not be an issue.

Nico Williams to Barcelona?

Barcelona’s hopes of signing Williams had seemingly vanished after reports that he would remain at Athletic Club until next summer at the earliest.

Following this news, the Blaugrana advanced in talks to sign the aforementioned Olmo and the move was officially confirmed on 9 August.

However, Sport’s report states that Williams is eager to join Barcelona and that a transfer is possible.

The 22-year-old scored five goals and provided 11 assists in LaLiga last season, while he scored in the Euro 2024 final as Spain emerged triumphant over England.