Fabrizio Romano via YouTube – Full Update on Nico Williams to FC Barcelona:
Fabrizio Romano has provided crucial insight into the current situation surrounding Barcelona’s pursuit of Athletic Club winger Nico Williams. While it may appear that there’s a delay or uncertainty in the transfer process, Romano reassures fans that the deal is still alive and well — but some hurdles need to be addressed before it’s finalized.
The Current Situation:
Romano confirms that Nico Williams’ representatives — his agents and advisors — are demanding formal guarantees in writing from Barcelona. These guarantees pertain primarily to one major concern: the official registration of the player once he joins the club. Due to Barça’s recent financial struggles, including salary cap issues and player registration delays in past seasons (as seen with players like Gavi and Koundé), Nico’s camp wants to ensure that everything is legally secure before committing fully.
This concern has triggered a wave of speculation over the last 24 hours, with some interpreting the hesitation as cold feet or potential problems in negotiations. However, Fabrizio is clear: this is not a collapse — rather, it’s just part of the routine due diligence from Nico’s side.
Barcelona’s Position:
Barcelona remains unwavering in their desire to bring Nico Williams to Camp Nou. The club intends to activate his release clause, which is reportedly around €58 million, and are currently working with La Liga to finalize the legal and financial steps involved in paying it.
In Spain, release clauses have to be paid through the league, and due to La Liga’s financial fair play regulations, Barça must coordinate carefully to make sure the clause is paid properly and the player is registered without violations. That’s what’s currently being sorted.
The club has asked for patience from Nico’s camp, urging them to trust that the process will be completed smoothly. However, the player’s entourage is pressing for paperwork now — not just verbal promises — to avoid complications later. Personal Terms Already Agreed:
Despite these ongoing discussions, there is no issue between Nico Williams and Barça in terms of personal terms. An agreement has already been fully reached on a six-year contract that would see the Spanish international earn a net salary of between €7 million and €8 million per year. That’s a massive commitment from Barça, showing how highly they rate the 21-year-old winger.
What Happens Next:
Romano made it clear that the deal is 100% active, and Barcelona has not pulled out of the race — quite the opposite. They are now finalizing logistics with La Liga, and negotiations with the player’s camp are expected to continue into Monday and Tuesday.
The message from the club is simple: “Trust us and be patient.” But Nico’s representatives understandably want to see those promises backed up in writing — a common safeguard in modern football, especially with clubs who’ve had regulatory or financial problems.
Bottom Line:
- Nico Williams wants to join Barça and has agreed to personal terms.
- Barcelona want Nico and are ready to pay his release clause.
- The delay is technical, mostly involving La Liga procedures and registration guarantees.
- The deal is still on, but needs more time and documentation.
- As Fabrizio said: “It’s just a process. We have to be patient.”
