Barcelona's Shock Agent Meeting Revealed as Lamine Yamal Signals Bombshell Transfer Move

Despite publicly downplaying the possibility of a summer transfer, Barcelona have conducted a meeting with the representative of Athletic Club's winger Nico Williams regarding a potential high-profile move, according to recent reports.

Williams has been on Barcelona's radar for more than a year but, after unsuccessful attempts to secure his signature last summer, club president Joan Laporta recently suggested that the La Liga champions are looking at alternative options—specifically Liverpool's Luis Díaz.

This statement seemed to indicate the end of Barcelona's pursuit of Williams as Arsenal, Chelsea and Bayern Munich all began exploring summer transfers for the Spanish international, but Hansi Flick's team has now rejoined the competition.

According to initial reporting by SPORT, Williams's agent recently traveled to Barcelona for discussions with sporting director Deco to ascertain whether the Blaugrana have completely withdrawn from pursuing his client.

While Barcelona confirmed their continued interest, they emphasized they will only move forward with acquiring Williams if the financial aspects align. His contract includes a release clause of €62 million ($71.6 million), but he would also need to reduce his salary expectations to complete a transfer to Catalonia.

Foot Mercato reports that Williams has requested a €20 million ($23.1 million) contract from Bayern, but his preference to join Barcelona this summer has led him to propose an agreement matching the €12 million ($13.9 million) that the La Liga club offered him last summer.

Following reports of the meeting between Barcelona and Williams, Lamine Yamal intensified speculation by posting on social media a photograph of himself and the Athletic Club star, who is a close friend, celebrating together during a match.

Yamal is reportedly eager to play alongside his international teammate at club level, and Fabrizio Romano adds that Williams has now clearly indicated his willingness to transfer to Barcelona this summer after showing hesitation about the move last year.

Amid these developments, Athletic are reportedly keen to present Williams with a contract extension to increase his release clause and end the ongoing transfer speculation, but the ultimate choice will be made by the 22-year-old player.

Various European clubs stand ready to activate his release clause, while Barcelona is now investigating ways to accommodate such an expenditure within their summer transfer budget.