Nico Williams Informs Athletic of €62 Million Release Clause Move to Barcelona Amid LaLiga Registration Issues and Bayern Offer

Nico Williams, the Athletic Club forward, has formally communicated his desire to transfer to FC Barcelona, signaling a potential move that has generated considerable tension between the two clubs. Barcelona has reached a personal agreement with Williams until June 2031 and intends to pay his €62 million release clause in full, as Athletic Club has refused installment payments. Despite Barcelona's readiness to complete the payment and provide registration guarantees, LaLiga president Javier Tebas has stated that Barcelona currently cannot register Williams due to financial fair play constraints. Athletic Club has expressed concerns about Barcelona's compliance with financial regulations, even meeting with LaLiga officials to discuss the matter.

Meanwhile, Bayern Munich has increased its offer to Williams, attempting to sway the player amid uncertainties surrounding his registration with Barcelona. Williams has reportedly declined Bayern's advances for now, prioritizing a move to Barcelona but demanding assurances regarding his registration. The transfer saga remains unresolved, with Barcelona pressing Williams' agent for a definitive commitment and Athletic Club monitoring the situation closely. Williams has cut short his vacation to facilitate the transfer, which could be finalized in early July if registration issues are resolved. The situation has sparked debate over financial rules and club relations, with Barcelona president Joan Laporta affirming the club's preparedness to pay the release clause and inviting scrutiny of their finances, while Athletic insists on strict adherence to regulations.