Tom Weber
Tom Weber
Updated: 8 Mar 2025 17:50 GMT
3 min read
Nico Williams, Athletic Club, 2024/25
© IMAGO
The Nico Williams to Barcelona rumours could receive new momentum following a surprising revelation.
The Athletic Club winger was the Blaugrana's top target last summer, but his unwillingness to leave his boyhood side ultimately forced the Catalans to sign Dani Olmo instead.
Williams was also being courted by the likes of Arsenal and Chelsea, though the two Premier League heavyweights had concerns about the financial package required to sign him.
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In addition to his €58 million release clause, which would have to be paid in one lump sum, Williams is on a hefty wage in Bilbao, making him a much bigger investment than may seem at first glance.
The 22-year-old nevertheless remains one of Europe's most sought-after commodities. Arsenal and Chelsea remain keen, while the admiration from Barcelonaremains, although the links have somewhat cooled as Raphinha is enjoying a stunning season.
Nico Williams
© IMAGO - Nico Williams
Raphinha to influence Williams' future?
The Brazilian is thought to be a genuine contender for this year's Ballon d'Or courtesy of his exploits for Barcelona. Raphinha has gone from a maligned figure to one of Hansi Flick's most important players, scoring a whopping 25 goals and providing 18 assists so far this season.
Yet his future has seemingly always been in doubt. Though he has made it clear that he wants to stay at Barcelona long-term, the Blaugrana have been willing to entertain offers.
Indeed, Relevo now reports that Saudi giants Al-Hilal made a €100 million bid for the winger last year, offering him an eye-watering €15m-per-season salary.
Raphinha
© IMAGO - Raphinha
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It was Saudi Arabia's second attempt to lure the former Leeds star to the Middle East and they may return for him in the upcoming summer window.
Barcelona want to extend his contract and Raphinha is said to be 'more hungry for glory than money,' but there is an acceptance that one big, 'painful' summer sale might be necessary.
There are other candidates to be offloaded, but Barcelona may have to think twice about turning down €100m for a 28-year-old again. His departure would blow the race to sign Nico Williams wide open again.