Nico Williams is trapped in the middle of one of this summer’s biggest transfer standoffs.
According to TEAMTALK, the 22-year-old winger, currently at Athletic Club, has already agreed personal terms with Barcelona, with deal running until 2031 and would pay him a reported €12m [$14m] per year, but despite the agreement, the move is still on hold.
Barcelona are prepared to pay the €58m [$68m] release clause in Williams’contract, but only in installments and the Athletic Club have rejected that approach completely, making it clear that the clause must be paid in full and upfront, as stated in the terms.
In the meantime, the Basque side is trying to hold on to their star by offering him a new contract with a big salary increase through 2027 but Williams has told the club he wants to join Barcelona.
The impasse is creating mounting pressure, and it’s beginning to show.
Nico Williams' old boss calls out Barcelona over transfer drama
Villarreal coach Marcelino García Toral, who handed Williams his senior debut in 2021, has spoken out against how Barcelona are handling the deal. In an interview with Carrusel Deportivo (via MARCA), he said:
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"Of course I would take him to Villarreal, but I don't think we'll be able to. The financial means won't be possible."
"He's at a big club and will want to take another step in his career, and he may think that next step is Barcelona, as is being discussed."
Marcelino expressed concern for the player, adding:
"It's not easy, but making it so complicated… He's in a complicated position, and I think it could have been avoided."
"It could all have been simpler if you want to sign a player and have the money. Nico, whom I love very much, is not having a good time."
He also criticized Barça's leadership, saying:
"You can talk, but when you announce an agreement, you have to be sure of the next step you're going to take."
"It seems to me that being more serious means getting everything done in a timely manner, with greater speed, less murmuring and fewer complaints about everything."
Barcelona sporting director Deco confirmed this week that Williams wants to come and the club will try to make the move happen.
Bayern Munich are monitoring the situation, while Arsenal reportedly have dropped out due to wage demands.
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