Barcelona will not activate target’s release clause until registration can be guaranteed despite growing optimism | OneFootball

Optimism is quietly growing at FC Barcelona over the potential signing of Nico Williams, claims a report from Mundo Deportivo.

The outlet mentions that the Catalan giants are in advanced talks with the winger’s entourage and feel confident that a deal is on the right track.

However, the club is holding back from activating his release clause until they are absolutely certain they can register him in La Liga.

The 22-year-old winger has made it clear where he wants to play. Despite receiving offers from top Premier League clubs such as Arsenal and Chelsea, as well as interest from Bayern Munich, Nico has already shown his willingness to commit to Barcelona.

This strong interest is not just from the board, but also from within the dressing room, where several players have reportedly urged the club to complete the signing.

Complete agreement with Nico

Barcelona are in complete agreement with the player and his agent. However, there is a major caveat, which is his registration.

Barcelona are being very cautious. (Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images)

Nico had previously requested that Barcelona only move forward if they were sure he could be officially registered. The club fully respects that and are not prepared to repeat past mistakes.

Due to strained relations with Athletic Club, Barcelona are aware that there is no room for negotiation. The only way to sign Nico is by paying his full €58 million buyout clause.

Barcelona need exits

But before doing so, the club needs to create a financial fair play room to ensure his registration. The issue is not the transfer fee itself, but La Liga’s strict salary cap rules.

To make space, Barcelona are looking at potential high-profile exits. Marc-Andre ter Stegen is one name mentioned, while Ronald Araujo, whose release clause will drop from €1 billion to €65 million between 1 and 15 July, could also be sold if the right offer arrives.

In short, the club remains confident of landing Nico, but they will wait for a major departure before making the decisive move.