Just in – Barcelona reach preliminary agreement with key target over €12 million-a-year contract until 2031 | OneFootball

Barcelona have taken a big step towards signing Nico Williams, as according to journalist Santi Aouna, the club has reached a pre-agreement with the 22-year-old Athletic Club winger.

The deal would see Nico sign a contract that runs until June 2031, earning him a salary of €12 million gross per season.

The Catalan side have been working behind the scenes to make this move happen. After missing out on him last summer, many thought the opportunity had passed.

But Barcelona have returned to the table with a more serious approach this time. They are now prepared to activate the winger’s release clause and are already in talks with his representatives to understand the legal process of making it official.

The club believes Nico is the right long-term investment, especially when compared to other options in the market.

Nico sees Barcelona move positively

Nico Williams is open to joining Barcelona. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

Barcelona faced a key decision between signing Nico Williams or going for someone like Luis Diaz, as the difference lay in age and financial structure.

While Nico’s release clause stands at €60 million and must be paid upfront due to Athletic Club’s strict policy, a transfer for 28-year-old Diaz could be more flexible. Liverpool may allow a payment in instalments, making it financially easier to manage.

Despite having a contract renewal offer from Athletic, Nico is now much more open to joining Barcelona. Last year, he was hesitant to leave Athletic Club, but this time, the move appeals to him.

His desire to continue in Spain, combined with Barcelona’s belief in his potential, makes this deal look increasingly likely.

All signs now point to the Camp Nou as Nico Williams’ next destination, a transfer that could shape Barcelona’s attack for many years.