After Nico Williams sign a lucrative 10 years contract with Athletic Bilbao, Barcelona is set to sign this 22 years old player who has more contributions than Lamine Yamal last Season

Athletic Bilbao’s talented forward Nico Williams has committed to the club for the long haul, signing a 10-year contract extension. This move comes after speculation surrounding his potential transfer to Barcelona, with the Spanish giants reportedly struggling to navigate La Liga’s financial regulations.
*A Vote of Confidence from Athletic Bilbao*
The contract extension, which includes a buyout clause of at least €90 million (£78 million), is a testament to Williams’ value to the club. Williams, who has scored 31 goals in 167 appearances for Athletic Bilbao, has been instrumental in the team’s success, helping them qualify for the 2025-26 Champions League.
*A Rising Trend in Football*
Williams’ long-term contract is part of a growing trend in football, where top clubs are increasingly signing players to extended deals. This strategy allows clubs to retain talent and build a stable foundation for the future. Other notable examples include Erling Haaland’s commitment to Manchester City until 2034 and Cole Palmer’s contract extension with Chelsea until 2033.
*Barcelona’s Frustrated Pursuit*
Barcelona had reportedly agreed personal terms with Williams, but their pursuit was hindered by financial constraints. The club’s struggles to comply with La Liga’s 1:1 rule, which limits spending to match income, made it challenging for them to register Williams. Despite their efforts, the deal ultimately fell through, and Williams has chosen to stay with Athletic Bilbao [1].