Fabrizio Romano shares encouraging development on Barcelona’s pursuit of Nico Williams | OneFootball

Barcelona have moved Nico Williams to the top of their wish list after the 22‑year‑old made it clear he wants to join them.

Journalist Fabrizio Romano reports that Barça are now ready to trigger Nico’s €58 m release clause at Athletic Club.

While talks are not yet finalised, the club has shifted its attack plans because of Nico’s full commitment to Barcelona.

Over the past few hours, the mood at Camp Nou has changed dramatically, as Nico has told everyone he is desperate to play for Barça.

The club’s current stars have backed his wish and passed the message on to president Joan Laporta. That player backing, combined with Nico’s eagerness, has pushed the board to study the deal in detail.

Barcelona shifts attack priorities

Until recently, Barcelona had other targets in mind, including Liverpool’s Luis Diaz. That pursuit was driven by a more flexible payment plan. However, with Nico’s desire to sign and his ready-to-go attitude, Barça have reordered their transfer list.

Barcelona have decided to trigger Nico Williams’ release clause. (Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images)

They now see him as the ideal addition to boost their forward line. Even though Diaz remains an option, Barcelona’s heart seems set on Athletic’s home‑grown star.

Despite Nico’s thumbs-up, the transfer is not yet complete. Barça must still agree terms with Athletic over the €58 m clause.

Unlike many clubs, Athletic are firm on upfront payments and rarely negotiate on structure. That stiff stance means Barcelona face a tricky financial puzzle.

Financial puzzle: Release clause vs instalments

Barcelona know they must weigh up paying a big lump sum now against the ease of instalments. The Diaz example shows how Liverpool can accept staggered payments, smoothing the club’s budget.

By contrast, Athletic want the full €58 m in one go. That could strain Barça’s wage and registration limits, especially under La Liga’s strict financial fair‑play rules.

Laporta is now running the numbers. He knows Nico is all in for Barcelona, and the squad share that excitement. Yet the club cannot ignore the financial side.