Spain international enjoys a close relationship with several young talent in Barcelona, most notably Lamine Yamal
Nico Williams has informed Athletic Club that he wants to leave this summer, turning down a lucrative renewal from the Basque side to pursue a move to Barcelona.
The Spanish international is convinced that the time has come to take the next step in his career, and he believes Barcelona, under manager Hansi Flick, is the right place to do it.
There is already an agreement for a six-year deal in place between the player and Barcelona, with the club working quietly to complete the transfer, according to Mundo Deportivo.
Barcelona are also confident that the player will slot naturally into Flick’s system thanks to his pace and pressing intensity. He is also expected to complement Yamal by playing on the opposite wing, as both players have done since their time in the Spain youth team.
Though Williams’ current deal at Athletic runs until 2027, he is said to be focused on pushing the move through, despite strong resistance from the Basque club and more lucrative offers from elsewhere, most notably Bayern Munich.
The German champions have reportedly tabled a bigger financial package, but Nico is drawn more to Barcelona’s project and the personal relationships he already enjoys there.
The Spain international is close friends with Lamine Yamal, Alejandro Balde, Pedri, Ferran Torres and Dani Olmo, all young Spanish players in Barcelona’s dressing room. The group also believe the Athletic winger will soon be joining them.
Barcelona view Williams as a long-term investment, someone who can bring a lot of pace and quality to their attack for years to come.
