Athletic Club winger Nico Williams put an end to months of transfer speculation by signing a new contract that will keep him at the Basque club until 2035, effectively turning down a high-profile move to FC Barcelona.
The 22-year-old had been closely linked with the Catalan side, who were reportedly ready to activate his €62 million release clause. Talks had even progressed to a proposed six-year deal, but negotiations hit a roadblock over La Liga registration guarantees, an assurance Barcelona refused to provide in writing.
Despite initial optimism from both camps that a deal could still be reached, Williams made a surprise decision to stay at Athletic Club. The new agreement significantly extends his previous contract, which was set to expire in 2027, and raises his release clause to between €95 million and €100 million, an increase of over 50%.
In a video released by the club, Nico expressed his loyalty and affection for Athletic, saying, “When it comes to making decisions, the most important thing is to listen to your heart. I am in the place where I want to be, with my people. This is my home. Aupa Athletic!”
The extension also marks a striking turnaround, considering it was Williams’ camp that reportedly reached out to Barcelona earlier this year following a breakdown in previous talks.
Athletic Club confirmed the new deal in a statement, celebrating what they called a major win. “His decision to stay, despite lucrative offers, is a resounding success for the club,” the statement read.
The club’s announcement also included a playful dig at Barcelona, labeling the extension an “Athletic WIN”, a nod to the Williams brothers, Nico and Iñaki. The hashtag #AthleticWIN featured prominently across the club’s social media channels.
With this commitment, Nico Williams remains a central figure in Athletic Club’s long-term plans, secured through what is now one of the most significant contracts in the club’s history.
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