The one major obstacle in a Barcelona deal for Nico Williams | OneFootball

An insight into the one and only serious obstacle in the way of La Liga giants Barcelona in their hopes of landing Nico Williams from Athletic Club has this week been provided.

The info comes courtesy of Mundo Deportivo, and points towards the issue being a financial one.

Wide-man Nico has of course dominated the headlines in Catalunya’s capital once more over recent days.

This comes after a transfer saga which spanned the entirety of the summer window in 2024 was sparked back into life by the player himself.

The 22-year-old requested for his agent, Félix Tainta, to hold a meeting with Barcelona sporting director Deco, to make known his absolute readiness to wear the Blaugrana colours.

As much has reignited the interest of Joan Laporta and co, who appear to have warmed to Nico’s potential arrival once more.

As alluded to above, though, amid their pursuit, one source of concern remains for the Barcelona board.

As per a report from MD:

‘The handicap is the method of payment, because a clause is executed directly and entails a high one-time outlay. That’s why the club is analyzing the transaction to determine its viability, knowing that Athletic isn’t willing to allow installment payments to anyone, least of all Barça.’

In simpler words, Barcelona would be required to fork over the entirety of Nico’s €62 million release clause in one go, a tough ask amid their current financial situation.

Conor Laird – GSFN