Nico Williams signed a surprising contract extension with Athletic Club, formally rejecting a move to Barcelona.
Williams had agreed to personal terms with Barcelona, and his €62 million ($72.9 million) release clause, including fees, had opened the door to a move to Catalonia.
However, there was a lot of speculation about Barça’s ability to finance such a deal and register Williams, which raised serious doubts about their chances of closing a deal.
Williams will not be leaving, Athletic unexpectedly declared on Friday, committing the Spain international to an eight-year contract extension that has doubled his release clause.
“Athletic Club forward Nico Williams has put pen to paper on a 10-year deal keeping him in Bilbao until 30 June 2035,” a statement read. “Nico’s new agreement has an increase in the release clause of more than 50% over the previous one.
“Nico Williams’s step forward in the face of dizzying offers is a resounding success for Athletic Club, a true Athletic Club win.”
Upon signing the contract, Williams said: “When it comes to making decisions, for me, the most important thing is to listen to your heart. I am where I want to be, with my people, this is my home.”
Barcelona, who are still trying to sign a forward despite not being able to use La Liga’s 1:1 spending rules—which allow them to spend €1 for every €1 raised—are dealt a devastating blow by the news. Luis Díaz, a winger for Liverpool, was a top target, but Barcelona was put off by his price tag. Marcus Rashford of Manchester United is eager to join the La Liga winners and was considered Williams’ backup in case a trade for the Athletic star fell through.
