Athletic Club managed to stave off interest from Barcelona this summer, and hang onto star winger Nico Williams. Now they are working on doing the same next summer.
Some reports claim that Barcelona’s inability to guarantee that they could register Williams was the key factor in the move not happening, but either way, Williams made the call to stay in Bilbao. Now Sport say that Athletic are pushing to renew his contract.
His current deal expires in 2027, and while Athletic can still demand his €58m release clause next summer, it is no surprise the Basque giants are keen to extend his contract. Barcelona are still looking at wingers for next summer, and are keeping a close eye on the situation. As long as his release clause remains at €58m, then Barcelona will maintain their interest. Los Leones want to extend his contract, but will also try to raise his release clause significantly.
The 22-year-old will no doubt have more offers on the table if he does decide to leave, then he will no doubt have more offers on the table. Particularly, if his release clause is maintained, as it looks a bargain at the time of writing compared to some other deals. As many sides have found out though, most Athletic stars are difficult to prise from San Mames, being well-paid as it is.