From Agreement to Deadlock: Barcelona Face New Blow in Nico Williams Chase | OneFootball

Agreement stalls amid high demands and pressure from Athletic Bilbao’s fanbase and LaLiga rules

From Agreement to Deadlock: Barcelona Face New Blow in Nico Williams Chase

Barcelona’s pursuit of Nico Williams's taken unexpected turn as negotiations between the club and the player’s entourage have stalled threatening what seemed to be near complete deal.

The 21 year old Spanish winger, currently at Athletic Bilbao, was expected to join Barcelona before 9 Jul, the date when he’s due to report for preseason with his current club.

A verbal agreement had been reached last week for 6 year contract including salary terms following groundwork laid during last summer’s window.

What Went Wrong?

According to Mundo Deportivo, trouble began when the verbal deal was formalized into written contracts. Williams agent reportedly demanded strong guarantees concerning his la liga registration, fearing repeat of last summer’s chaos involving Barca’s failed attempts to register Dani Olmo & Pau Victor due to Financial Fair Play FFP restrictions.

While Barcelona assured Williams camp that their FFP status will improve, the player’s representatives insist on tight clauses and detailed assurances which the club currently finds excessive & unacceptable.

The tension's compounded by growing unrest in Bilbao. Fans have defaced murals of Williams multiple times making it clear the young star will face tough atmosphere if he remains.

Meanwhile Athletic Bilbao’s board has been closely monitoring Barca’s financial moves and held formal meeting with la liga last week to discuss player registration concerns, later issuing public statement criticizing Barcelona’s sporting director Deco.