Barcelona’s move to sign Nico Williams from Athletic Bilbao is being held up due to the ‘financial feasibility’ of completing the deal.
The Spanish side are working to secure the transfer of Williams from their divisional rivals but progress has stalled due to the economic challenges in Catalonia.
Williams starred as Spain won Euro 2024 this summer and scored the opening goal in the final win over England.
The 22-year-old’s performances have alerted top clubs across Europe, though the winger has given priority to Barcelona and wants the move to the Camp Nou.
However, Barcelona’s financial situation has made a deal complicated and the Spaniards need to offload players before funding the deal. Williams reportedly has a release clause of around £49m in his contract.
Sky Germany are reporting that Williams wants to join Barcelona, but is prepared to stay at Athletic Bilbao if a deal cannot be agreed. The player is understood to be ‘behaving in an extremely professional manner’ and is respectful of Bilbao’s stance on his future.
Premier League clubs are continuing to monitor his situation in case of a chance to capitalise should Barcelona withdraw their interest. Arsenal, Chelsea and Liverpool have all been heavily linked with the Spaniard, who scored eight goals and provided 19 assists across all competitions in 2023/24.
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