Barcelona have reached a personal agreement with Spanish winger Nico Williams, according to recent reports, as they aim to bring him to Camp Nou this summer.
The Catalan giants have admired the Athletic club star for some time and have now secured an ‘agreement in principle’ with the Euro 2024 standout, per SPORT.
The report highlighted a meeting between Barcelona and Williams’ agent, Felix Tainta, where the terms were agreed upon.
The next step for the club is addressing his significant release clause, which is approximately €58 million.
Despite financial challenges, Barcelona is optimistic about signing the player.
Club president Joan Laporta expressed the club’s ‘commitment’ to the 21-year-old.
“Obviously I like him, a lot,” Laporta told El Mati de Catalunya Radio. “Today we can afford to sign Nico Williams. We can cope with a signing like Nico’s.
“We are working with [Hansi] Flick on possible signings. Now we have to leave [sporting director] Deco to close the operations we are working on. Soon we will be able to announce some good news with regard to the financial [issues], and we will be back within La Liga’s Fair Play limits. And that will allow further good news in terms of [signings].”
Williams had an impressive season with Athletic Club, making 37 appearances and contributing eight goals and 19 assists.
His performances have also shone on the international stage, helping Spain reach the Euro 2024 final.
The young talent has attracted interest from multiple clubs, including Arsenal and Chelsea, who are eager to secure his signature.
Williams has previously stated that he will not wait indefinitely for Barcelona and may consider other offers if they cannot meet his release clause.
Spain and Williams will face either England or the Netherlands in the tournament final, hoping to claim European silverware in Germany.
