Barcelona’s Pursuit of Nico Williams Hits Double Roadblock

Barcelona's efforts to sign Athletic Bilbao’s electric winger Nico Williams have encountered two major stumbling blocks, despite the player’s desire to wear the Blaugrana shirt.

After weeks of speculation, Barcelona accelerated talks to bring the 21-year-old Spain international to Camp Nou. Williams, known for his blistering pace, flair, and creativity, is reportedly keen on making the switch to Hansi Flick’s new-look side. However, a report by Mundo Deportivo has revealed two key obstacles stalling the move.

🚧 Obstacle 1: Luis Díaz Still the Priority

Surprisingly, Barcelona still consider Liverpool's Luis Díaz their primary target for the left-wing position. The Colombian star fits Flick’s high-intensity pressing style and has proven himself in both domestic and European competitions. But Liverpool are refusing to sell, and if they ever open the door, the price tag could exceed €60 million — a fee Barcelona might struggle to meet without significant player sales or restructuring.

💰 Obstacle 2: Williams' Release Clause & Payment Structure

While Nico Williams has a release clause of €58 million (rising to nearly €64 million when adjusted for inflation), the structure of the payment is proving problematic for Barcelona. Under La Liga rules, release clauses must be paid in full, immediately — a model that doesn't align with Barça’s current fragile financial state.

In essence, even though Williams is more “affordable” than Díaz on paper, the financial terms of triggering his clause outright present a different kind of headache for the Catalan giants.

❤️ Williams Willing to Lower Wages

In a show of clear intent, Williams is ready to reduce his wages to help facilitate the move. It’s a gesture reminiscent of several players who have historically shown loyalty and ambition to wear the Barça badge. His commitment to the deal highlights just how attractive playing under Flick — and in a project of Barcelona’s magnitude — is for young talents.

🗣️ Opinion: Should Barça Focus on Williams Over Díaz?

While Luis Díaz may offer immediate impact and big-match experience, Nico Williams arguably represents the smarter long-term investment. At just 21, he’s already a Spain regular and has dazzled for Athletic Bilbao with consistent performances in La Liga. His chemistry with young talents like Lamine Yamal and Pedri could form the core of Barça’s attacking unit for years.

Barcelona must ask themselves: Is the financial gamble on Díaz worth delaying or losing a player who actually wants to come and is willing to compromise to do so?

🔍 The Bigger Picture

Barça's ongoing financial constraints are now shaping their transfer decisions more than ever. With La Liga's strict FFP rules and the lingering effects of past financial mismanagement, club president Joan Laporta and sporting director Deco have a fine line to walk.

As fans await further developments, one thing is certain — Barcelona must act decisively if they hope to secure top talents and keep pace with rivals like Real Madrid in the coming season.

💬 Do you think Barcelona should go all in for Nico Williams instead of Luis Díaz? Drop your thoughts with #BarçaTransfers #NicoOrDiaz 👇