Barcelona Quietly Renews Interest in La Liga Star After Secret Talks
In a low-profile move, Barcelona appears to have quietly taken steps toward reshaping their attacking lineup this summer. The Catalan club recently held a behind-the-scenes meeting with a prominent agent who represents a player long admired by the club.
Although Barcelona had shifted their focus in recent months toward other high-profile names—such as Liverpool’s Luis Díaz—new developments suggest the situation is more complex than it initially seemed. Sources confirm that sporting director Deco was directly involved in the talks, aiming to clarify a matter many believed was off the table.
It has now emerged that the subject of these renewed talks is none other than Nico Williams, the talented 22-year-old winger from Athletic Club. After a failed attempt to sign him last summer, Barcelona appeared to have stepped away, while clubs like Arsenal, Chelsea, and Bayern Munich ramped up their interest. However, Barcelona’s recent move suggests the door was never fully closed.
Despite Williams having a €62 million release clause and the club’s ongoing financial struggles, there are signs of flexibility. Reports indicate that while the player requested a €20 million salary from Bayern Munich, he may be willing to accept the €12 million offer previously proposed by Barcelona—hinting at a preference for life in Catalonia.
Adding to the speculation, Barcelona wonderkid Lamine Yamal—known to have a close relationship with Williams—recently posted a celebratory photo of the two, potentially teasing a future partnership. Reliable journalist Fabrizio Romano has also reported that Williams is now more open to the move, despite his earlier hesitation.
Meanwhile, Athletic Club is working to secure the player’s future with a new contract and higher release clause. But with several top European clubs ready to activate his current clause, Barcelona is racing against time—and its financial constraints—to make a decisive move.
