Barcelona key target to intervene to ask more flexible payment terms from current club | OneFootball

The release clause in Barcelona target Nico Williams’ contract with Athletic Club has remained unchanged since his last renewal in December 2023, which runs until 2027.

His departure is valued at €58 million, a figure that will rise to €62 million with inflation unless Barcelona and Athletic reach an agreement.

However, that is something unlikely at this time, given the strained relations between the two clubs since Barcelona’s attempt to sign the 22-year-old winger last summer.

Nico to intervene

Barcelona have assured that they will have no issue covering the full cost of Nico’s clause.

However, according to Mundo Deportivo, the player himself, through his agent Félix Tainta, will attempt to persuade Athletic to ease their stance and allow the payment to be made in instalments rather than as a lump sum.

Nico Williams is headed to Barcelona. (Photo by Mark Thompson/Getty Images)

Ten months ago, Nico chose to stay at San Mames despite being a Euro champion, scoring in the final, and attracting interest from top clubs across Europe – Barcelona included.

After a period of consideration, the younger of the Williams brothers decided to remain in Bilbao for one more season with the goal of winning the Europa League final at San Mames. That dream ended in the semi-finals against Manchester United.

Because of this commitment and his professional conduct, Nico, who already has agreed a six-year contract with Barcelona, now hopes that Athletic will show some understanding regarding his departure.

Barcelona are not overly optimistic about the possibility, but they will wait to see how things develop. If necessary, they are prepared to pay the full release clause in one payment.