Fabrizio Romano has confirmed that Nico Williams has agreed to personal terms over a transfer, with the likes of Arsenal, Barcelona and Bayern Munich made well aware of what the player’s stance is.
Football transfer news reporter Romano has indicated that the Athletic Club star intends to move to Barcelona this summer, making it “very clear” to his suitors that the Camp Nou side has been given priority by the 22-year-old.
There is still an opening, however, for Arsenal and Bayern as there are doubts over whether the Catalans can fund a move for the €58 million Spain international.
“All the people at Barcelona are trying to work out how it can happen,” Romano told his YouTube channel. “They’ve got the green light from the player. Nico Williams wants to go to Barcelona. Via his agent, he’s told all the clubs interested in him, is that his very clear intention is to go to Barcelona.
“Nico is only waiting for Barcelona. They’re waiting on this deal and working hard to make it happen as soon as possible.”
“According to my information, Deco is not going to Bilbao, he’s going to Ibiza. Who else is there? Nico Williams and Hansi Flick. I’m not saying the negotiations will take place in Ibiza, but I don’t think that’s the real point of the story. The real part is the technical and financial part.”
Barcelona personal terms agreed
Romano confirmed that Nico Williams has agreed personal terms with Barcelona, reaffirming reports made elsewhere earlier in the week.
He tweeted: “Nico Williams and Barça have agreed personal terms on six-year deal!
“Agreement sealed on player’s contract until June 2031 with the salary in the region of €7/8m net per season.
“Barca are currently working on financial terms to get deal done with Athletic.”
Nico Williams’ salary puts him close to the top of Barcelona’s wage structure, with Lamine Yamal acting as the top earner in this new format. The Ballon d’Or contender will earn €8m per year when he signs a new contract when he turns 18.
Nico Williams has other options
Arsenal have also been warned about the influence of Nico Williams’ current club, with Romano stating that even if a move to Barcelona falls through, there is a very real possibility the superstar winger stays in Bilbao.
“Don’t forget Athletic in this story. They’ve got a new contract proposal for Nico if he stays at the club. There’s the release clause at €58m, but we need to see if Barcelona can make it happen,” he added.
“Bayern are waiting. They’ve had two meetings. They see Nico Williams as the perfect target and they’re still thinking of him. If Barcelona falls through, they’ll try again.”
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