Getty Images - Juan Manuel Serrano Arce

Barcelona’s Big Push for Spanish Star Ignites Transfer Buzz

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Ryan White | Last updated Jun 17, 2025 2:40 PM ET

Barcelona’s relentless pursuit of Nico Williams just got more intriguing.

The 2024-2025 La Liga champions are looking for more talent. They have been linked to players such as Manchester United’s Marcus Rashford and Luis Diaz, who is currently with Liverpool.

Recently, Barcelona has switched its focus to Spanish international Nico Williams of Athletic Bilbao. He’s familiar with 17-year-old star Lamine Yamal because of their chemistry while playing for the Spain national team and making this a duo for club and country might be dangerous.

According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Barcelona has decided to activate Williams' deal option after confirming it’s his main priority. The club still needs more time to discuss the details with his agent about the €58m release clause with Athletic Bilbao.

Barcelona have decided to activate the Nico Williams deal option after getting player’s total priority.

Barça will need more rounds of talks with his agent as they’d need to discuss terms of €58m release clause with Athletic.

Not advanced yet; but Barça are now trying. pic.twitter.com/Y8YBmPVmUE
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 16, 2025

Although the deal isn’t complete just yet, it’s clear that Barcelona are heavily interested.

The 22-year-old forward has recorded 16 goals and 20 assists in 132 La Liga appearances over five seasons, with 2024-2025 being his most impressive yet. He posted 11 goals and seven assists throughout 45 appearances, establishing himself as an elite talent.

As a talent, he brings an exhilarating play style. Williams has a dangerous pace, skillful dribbling, and a unique ability to cross the ball accurately. He consistently puts pressure on opposing defenders, allowing him to create chances for his teammates.

While they had previously given priority to Díaz of Liverpool, Barca has now turned attention back to Williams, whose desire to remain in La Liga is consistent with their goals. The situation is more difficult because of Athletic Bilbao’s adamant position on the €58 million clause and the possibility that taxes could increase the price to a total of €75 million.

Acquiring Williams won’t be easy, however, the club sees it as essential. It’s hard to pass up on the idea of seeing Yamal and Williams play more matches together.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: