Breaking: Nico Williams' Transfer Destination Revealed—Club "Desperate" to Secure Signature

Reports from Spain suggest that Nico Williams has informed his Spain teammates about his strong desire to join Barcelona this summer.

Following his breakthrough performance at Euro 2024, Williams opted to remain with Athletic Club for the 2024-25 season despite Barcelona's interest. His campaign began sluggishly after Spain's triumph in Germany but eventually gained momentum. By season's end, Williams had contributed to 18 goals across all competitions for the Europa League semifinalists.

The talented winger is anticipated to depart Bilbao this summer, attracting attention from top European clubs. Premier League sides Chelsea and Arsenal have expressed interest, while Bayern Munich reportedly discussed terms with Williams' representatives after losing Leroy Sané to Galatasaray.

Barcelona appeared to have withdrawn from contention—with president Joan Laporta publicly stating as much—but a surprising development has positioned the La Liga champions as frontrunners to acquire Williams.

According to Diario AS, Williams expressed his Barcelona ambitions to the club's national team players during June's international fixtures. The essence of his message was "Bro, take me," potentially directed at Barcelona stars Pedri, Lamine Yamal, Fermín López and Pau Cubarsí.

Williams shares a particularly close relationship with fellow winger Yamal, who coincidentally shared an Instagram story featuring both players in Spain colors on the same day Deco reportedly met with Williams' representatives.

No agreement has been finalized, and Barcelona would likely need to activate additional financial mechanisms to fund what would be a costly transfer. Several interested clubs have been deterred by Williams' €62 million ($71.6 million) release clause, which requires immediate payment in full. Reports also indicate the winger requested a €20 million ($23.1 million) annual salary from Bayern.

Barcelona previously offered Williams a €12 million ($13.9 million) yearly contract, but his apparent eagerness to play in Catalonia might lead him to reduce his financial expectations to facilitate a move.