The atmosphere in Bilbao has changed in a matter of days. The streets, which recently celebrated the Copa final and Athletic's great season, are now experiencing moments of tension and debate. A simple graffiti on Nico Williams's mural reflects the division between those who applaud his ambition and those who feel betrayed. Soccer never leaves anyone indifferent, and the deal that could take the Navarrese winger to Barcelona is the main topic of conversation in the city and in the world of Spanish soccer.
Nico Williams's decision and the immediate reaction at San Mamés
Nico Williams has made a firm decision. According to several recent reports, he has already informed Athletic Club of his intention to leave the club this summer. The message has been clear and direct. The player wants to start a new chapter at FC Barcelona.
This communication hasn't gone unnoticed by the red-and-white board, which now faces a complex situation, both contractually and emotionally. The Bilbao club, aware of the footballer's potential, has quickly reminded everyone of the terms of his departure: they will only accept full payment of the release clause, about €62 million (62 millones de euros) including the CPI.
This stance is the result of a cold relationship between the two boards. Athletic doesn't want to negotiate deadlines or special conditions, a demand that complicates the deal for Barça, which is constrained by the salary cap and LaLiga regulations. Nevertheless, in Barcelona they trust they can finalize the arrival of one of the most unbalancing wingers in the league.
The economic impact and the pressure of financial fair play
Nico Williams's signing is not just a sporting matter. Barça has worked in recent weeks to guarantee immediate payment of the clause. The new sponsorship terms with Nike have allowed the blaugrana club to strengthen their financial muscle. However, the margin is tight and the deal must fit the demands of financial fair play. The deadline, according to sources consulted, will be July 1 or 2.
If everything goes as planned, the payment will be executed at the start of the new fiscal year and Nico could be officially announced before the end of next week.
Meanwhile, Athletic has tried to entice the footballer with an improved contract offer. They have also tried to take advantage of the Basque tax regime to improve his net salary. But Nico's decision seems irreversible and those around him already take the change of scenery for granted.
The profile Hansi Flick is looking for to strengthen the blaugrana attack
Nico Williams's arrival would be a game-changer for Barça. Hansi Flick especially values his directness and dribbling ability, two qualities that are scarce in the current squad. On the left wing, his partnership with Lamine Yamal could make a difference both in La Liga and in Europe. The blaugrana club is betting on explosive youth and national talent to start a new era.
While waiting for the official announcement, the market keeps a close watch. Nico Williams's move will not only change Barça's immediate future, but it could also trigger more departures and arrivals in what is expected to be an intense summer. The countdown has begun and everything points to Spanish soccer experiencing one of its biggest bombs of the year next week.