Barcelona Close the Door on Nico Williams Pursuit â âNever Again,â Say Club Insiders
FC Barcelona have reportedly ended all interest in Athletic Club winger Nico Williams, with senior figures at the Catalan club stating privately that the Spanish international is âno longer on the radarâand never will be again.â
After months of speculation linking Williams with a high-profile switch to Camp Nou, sources close to the club have confirmed that Barça have withdrawn from any future pursuit of the 21-year-old. This marks a sharp U-turn, as Williams had long been seen as a priority target to strengthen the clubâs left flank.
Why the Sudden Change?
According to insiders, the decision stems from a combination of financial, strategic, and personal factors. Although Barcelona admired Williamsâ explosiveness and direct styleâtraits sorely needed in their attackâhis wage demands and insistence on certain guarantees reportedly strained negotiations.
Moreover, with Athletic Club standing firm on his âŹ58 million release clause and unwilling to negotiate a lower fee, Barcelonaâstill battling financial fair play limitationsâfound themselves unable to move forward without major sales. A recent contract extension signed by Williams at San MamĂŠs further complicated the picture, signaling his commitment to his current club.
âWe Wonât Go There Againâ
A high-ranking Barça official reportedly told local media off the record:
âWe made our move, but Nico and his camp had other priorities. Thatâs fine. Weâve moved onâand we wonât go there again.â
Barçaâs attention has since shifted to more financially viable and system-fitting alternatives, such as Luis DĂaz, Dani Olmo, and Abde Ezzalzouli, who could return from Real Betis. Sporting director Deco is now focused on finding attacking players who match both Xaviâs tactical requirements and the clubâs current economic framework.
A Missed Opportunity?
Many fans saw Nico Williams as a natural heir to Barçaâs traditional winger role, blending flair, youth, and La Liga experience. His performances with Spain at EURO 2024 only fueled excitement. However, the club now views the saga as a closed chapter.
As one fan on social media put it:
âIf Nico doesnât want to fight for the badge, we donât want him here. Next!â
With the door now firmly shut, Barcelonaâs pursuit of wide talent continues elsewhereâwithout Nico Williams in the picture.