Nico Williams signs extension with Athletic Bilbao, won’t move to Barcelona

Spain winger Nico Williams has signed a 10-year contract with Athletic Bilbao, ending speculation over Barcelona move

AFP
SPAIN: Spain international Nico Williams has signed a new 10-year contract with Athletic Bilbao, ending widespread speculation linking him with a summer move to Barcelona or Bayern Munich.
The 22-year-old winger, who scored in Spain’s Euro 2024 final victory over England, will now remain at San Mamés until June 2035, as announced by Athletic Bilbao. His existing deal was due to expire in 2027.
Athletic confirmed that Williams’ release clause, previously reported to be around €62 million, has been increased by 50%, signalling the club’s firm stance on keeping one of their most valuable assets.
“When decisions have to be made, for me, what weighs most is the heart,” Williams said. “I’m where I want to be, with my people—this is my home.”
Williams has become a key figure at Athletic since breaking into the senior side in 2021 at the age of 18.
He has made 167 appearances, scored 31 goals, and was instrumental in Bilbao’s fourth-place La Liga finish last season, securing a return to the UEFA Champions League.