In a dramatic twist to the summer transfer saga, Nico Williams, one of Europe’s most coveted young wingers and a top target for FC Barcelona, has committed his long-term future to Athletic Club by signing a historic 10-year contract extension. The deal, which keeps Williams in Bilbao until June 2035, not only marks a significant victory for Athletic Club but also sends a powerful message about loyalty, ambition, and the enduring appeal of the Basque institution.
The Transfer Saga: Barcelona’s Pursuit
Barcelona’s interest in Nico Williams was no secret. The Catalan giants, seeking to bolster their attacking options, had identified the 22-year-old Spanish international as a priority signing for the summer. Reports indicated that personal terms had been agreed between Williams and Barcelona, and the club was prepared to trigger his then-€62 million release clause. The move was seen as a near-certainty, with Williams’ close relationship with several Barça players and his impressive performances for Spain fueling speculation.
However, Barcelona’s well-documented financial constraints, including La Liga’s strict salary cap and registration rules, cast doubt over their ability to finalize the deal. The club’s struggles to register new signings in recent seasons, coupled with the need to balance the books, ultimately proved insurmountable. As negotiations stalled, Athletic Club seized the initiative, offering Williams a record-breaking contract extension.
The New Contract: Terms and Significance
On July 4, 2025, Athletic Club officially announced that Nico Williams had signed a 10-year deal, tying him to the club until 2035. The new contract includes a substantial increase in his release clause—reportedly rising by more than 50% to nearly €100 million—making any future transfer even more challenging for potential suitors.
Williams’ decision to stay was accompanied by a heartfelt message:
“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!”
This renewal is not just a personal milestone for Williams but a landmark moment for Athletic Club. It follows the recent contract extensions of other key players and reflects the club’s commitment to building success with homegrown talent. The move has been widely celebrated by fans and is seen as a resounding affirmation of the club’s unique philosophy and identity.
Williams’ Impact and Achievements
Since joining Athletic’s youth academy in 2013, Williams has risen through the ranks to become a cornerstone of the first team. Debuting at just 18, he has made 167 official appearances, scored 31 goals, and played a pivotal role in the club’s recent successes, including their Copa del Rey triumph in 2024 and qualification for the Champions League.
Williams’ pace, dribbling, and creativity have made him a nightmare for defenders and a fan favorite in Bilbao. His performances for Spain, including being named MVP in the Euro 2024 final, have further elevated his profile on the international stage.
The Broader Implications
Williams’ decision to reject Barcelona and stay at Athletic Club is significant on multiple levels:
For Athletic Club: It reinforces the club’s reputation for nurturing and retaining top Basque talent, even in the face of lucrative offers from Europe’s elite.
For Barcelona: The failed pursuit is a setback, forcing the club to look elsewhere for attacking reinforcements amid ongoing financial challenges.
For La Liga: The move highlights the growing competitiveness and ambition of clubs outside the traditional giants, contributing to a more balanced and unpredictable league.
Conclusion
Nico Williams’ 10-year contract extension with Athletic Club is a defining moment for both player and club. In an era where loyalty is often overshadowed by financial incentives, Williams’ choice to stay “with his people” stands as a testament to the enduring power of identity, community, and ambition. For Athletic Club, it is a victory that will resonate for years to come, inspiring a new generation of players and fans alike.