Nico Williams likely to remain at Athletic Bilbao amid Barcelona's weeks of pursuit

The Catalan giants have been pressing for Williams for the past few weeks.

Barcelona could have been hit with a big setback. Their long-term target Nico Williams is likely to remain at Athletic Bilbao after the Catalan giants’ weeks of pursuit of the youngster. 

His decision can certainly serve as a big blow for them. They were convinced that they would sign the forward and were ready to trigger his release clause. The Spanish side now will have to look elsewhere. 

Barcelona were striving to bring the 22-year-old to Camp Nou. Sporting director Deco was working behind the scenes on the Nico Williams deal. But despite his best efforts, the Catalan club are set to come up short.

However, the forward is yet to make a final decision to either club. But there is a growing feeling that he will continue at Athletic Bilbao. The winger had signed a three-year contract last December. 

Bilbao are set to participate in the UEFA Europa League next season after finishing fifth in LaLiga last season. The Spanish winger will be ready to continue his fine form after leading Spain to the Euro 2024 Championship. 

Clubs such as Paris Saint-Germain, Arsenal and Chelsea have also expressed interest in signing the player. Barcelona were not the only team interested. Nevertheless, Nico Williams has dashed the hopes of all the clubs, particularly Barcelona, who were assured they would be able to obtain the player.

Williams earned his promotion to the senior team in 2021. Since then, he has appeared in 122 matches in all competitions for Athletic Bilbao, registering 20 goals and 26 assists. 

For Barcelona now, they will look at other options or might continue to put their faith in Ansu Fati. Fati is their only left-wing option. But his injury record has made the winger’s time at the club uncertain. 

Fati has once again suffered a new injury. It remains to be seen how long he will be out. Then Barcelona can once again explore the transfer window and look to bring in a left-winger. 

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