Boost for Rashford, Lookman, as Barcelona miss out on first-choice target

Barcelona have been dealt a major blow in their summer transfer plans, as key winger target Nico Williams signed a long-term contract extension with Athletic Club. 

The 22-year-old had previously reached a verbal agreement with Barcelona and was set to be signed by the Blaugrana pending the triggering of his release clause. However, the Spain international has now made a U-turn, deciding to remain at his boyhood club. 

Los Leones announced via their official channels that Williams has signed an eight-year contract extension, which would keep him at the club until 2035. 

The club also announced that his release clause, which was previously set at €58 million, has been increased by more than 50%. 

In announcing his new contract, Williams expressed his commitment to the club. “When it comes to making decisions, for me, the most important thing is to listen to your heart. I am where I want to be, with my people; this is my home. Aupa Athletic,” he shared. 

According to Fabrizio Romano, the reason he changed his mind was that Barcelona could not guarantee that they could register him if they triggered his release clause.

The Blaugrana will now have to consider other options after losing out on Williams. As Pulse Sports reported, Lookman is one of the names they are evaluating, as the Barcelona coach, Hansi Flick, is a huge fan of the Nigerian. 

However, his name comes after Luis Diaz and Marcus Rashford. Luis Diaz had always been Barcelona's first choice, but his deal is expensive to complete. Rashford is keen on joining Barcelona, but the LALIGA champions want him on loan, while Manchester United are only looking for an outright sale.