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Arsenal, Barcelona and Bayern Munich will have to look elsewhere for attacking reinforcements after one of their main targets opted to sign an eight-year contract at his club.
Athletic Bilbao winger Nico Williams has rejected a move to Barcelona for the second consecutive summer, opting instead to sign a new long-term contract with his current club.
Barcelona were reportedly prepared to activate Williams's €58 million release clause and the player had expressed interest in the transfer.
However, the Catalan giants couldn't guarantee his registration, ultimately leading to the deal's collapse.
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Meanwhile, Premier League giants Arsenal were also credited with an interest in Williams as they explore offensive options but will now have to get him off their wish list.
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16:00 - 21.06.2025
5 Reasons Cash-Strapped Barcelona Can Still Afford to Sign Nico Williams
The reasons Barcelona can afford to sign and pay Nico Williams despite their financial challenges after agreeing to sign the Spain winger from Athletic Bilbao for €60m.
Williams Commits to Athletic Club Until 2035
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Multiple reports indicate that Williams has committed to Athletic Club for the next decade, signing a contract that will keep him at the club until 2035. Despite interest from both Barcelona and also Bayern Munich, the 22-year-old has chosen to stay put.
The club announced the contract extension on social media with a video featuring Williams in front of a recently restored mural depicting him and his brother, Inaki, Athletic Club's new captain.
The mural had previously been defaced by disgruntled fans before the club commissioned its restoration. In the video, Williams stated, “When it comes to making decisions, for me what weighs heaviest is my heart. I’m where I want to be, with my family. This is my home. Aupa Athletic!”
New Deal Includes Hefty Release Clause
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Williams's new contract not only includes a significant pay raise but also a substantial increase to his release clause, now reportedly exceeding €100 million. This makes him a considerably more expensive target for potential suitors, compared to his previous, more accessible €58 million clause.
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15:00 - 17.06.2025
Blow For Arsenal As Barcelona Yanks Away Transfer Target
Barcelona have swooped in to secure long term Arsenal transfer target.
This move underscores the strong connection players feel towards Athletic Club, a bond that goes beyond the typical player-club relationship.
Fans at San Mamés can look forward to enjoying the Williams brothers for years to come, and Nico will have the opportunity to experience Champions League football for the first time next season. The positive momentum continues in Bilbao.
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