Nico Williams have reportedly renewed his contract with Athletic Bilbao until 2035 amid intense interest from Barcelona.
The 22-year-old winger has been targeted by the Blaugrana, and there were even rumors that the club were prepared to activate his €62 million release clause soon.
There was also a six-year deal in place, but negotiations had halted because Nico’s camp wanted written guarantees on his La Liga registration, which the club refused to grant. There was still faith that the agreement would be completed.
A significant turn of events, though, occurred when Nico decided to sign a new ten-year contract with Athletic Club, committing to the Basque team until 2035.
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What Did Nico Williams Say About His New Deal With Athletic Club?
In the video shared by Athletic Club confirming the renewal, Nico says: “When it comes to making decisions, the most important thing is to listen to your heart.
“I am in the place where I want to be, with my people. This is my home. Aupa Athletic!“
This is a significant change in the circumstances given that Nico himself had started negotiations with Barcelona through his agent after the move had failed in 2024.
“Athletic Club and Nico Williams have reached an agreement to extend his contract, which was due to expire in 2027, for eight seasons, until June 30, 2035.
“His release clause increases by more than 50% compared to the previous one,” the club statement added.
“His step forward in the face of dizzying offers is a resounding success for Athletic Club, a true Athletic WIN (Williams, Inaki and Nico).”
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