Barcelona Pull Ahead to Sign Nico Williams Race After Hansi Flick Call

The Spain Winger Is Now Keen To Join Barcelona, Despite Competition From Bayern, Chelsea, and Arsenal.

Barcelona have suddenly emerged as the front-runners in the race to sign Spanish winger Nico Williams from Athletic Club. They haad been trying to sign the player since last season. However, the efforts went in vain. The Blaugrana then cooled their interest but it seems the scenario is much different now.

Reportedly, Barcelona new manager Hansi Flick had a talk with Williams which seems to have turned the tide in their favour. Williams has a number of clubs showing serious interest in him, but recent developments suggest the Catalans are not only, back in the mix, but they are also leading the charge.

🚨 More on Nico Williams: Barcelona got clear message from the player on being open to joining the club this summer.

Bayern are willing to make an effort, he’s still also on Arsenal list while Barça have their chance now.

🔴⚪️ Athletic are ready to offer new deal if he stays. pic.twitter.com/pNPAyhxuXU
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 13, 2025

Hansi Flick Steps In, Deco Initiates Talks

The turning point came earlier this week when Barcelona sporting director Deco held a meeting in the city with Nico’s agent, Felix Tainta. Reportedly, they discuss his possible transfer. Shortly after, reports from Jijantes confirmed that Hansi Flick personally called Williams to explain his vision for Barcelona and how the young winger fits into it.

Nico Williams Heavily Interested in the Move

As per reports, Williams has responded positively to Flick’s call. And the Euro 2024 winner is now heavily interested about joining Barcelona. Barcelona’s financial struggles are known to everyone. Apparently, Williams is even open to a reduced financial package. The 22-year-old is willing to accept the same €12 million gross annual salary Barcelona had offered him last year.

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This seems like a clear signal of his willingness to commit to the club’s project. Barcelona had a brilliant start under the guidance of new coach Hansi Flick, winning a domestic treble. With a promising project from Flick and possibility of no registration issues which caused him to back away from a possible move last season, it seems possible now.

Big Clubs Still in the Race, Athletic Determined to Retain Him

Barcelona’s pursuit faces stiff competition from across Europe. Bayern Munich are looking to reinforce their squad following the expected exits of Leroy San and Thomas Muller. They target Williams as a top priority after missing out on Florian Wirtz. According to Sky Germany, Bayern had already initiated talks with the player’s camp before they headed to the USA for pre-season.

Also Read: Kevin De Bruyne Joins Napoli: Salary, Contract, and All You Need to Know

Meanwhile, Premier League giants Arsenal and Chelsea are also closely monitoring the situation. Arsenal, in particular, have long admired the winger. Meanwhile Chelsea see him as a potential addition in the wider areas. Despite the mounting interest, Athletic Club have not given up hope of keeping their star either. The Basque club is attempting to renew Williams’ contract.

Williams’ current contract runs until 2027 and it includes a €62 million release clause. Sources suggest an extension is still on the table. Williams had a standout season with Athletic, contributing 10 goals across all competitions. He even earned a spot in the UEFA Europa League Team of the Season. He will be an asset for whichever club he ultimately decides to join.

Arsenal

Athletic Bilbao

Barcelona

Bayern Munich

Chelsea

Hansi Flick

Nico Williams

Moumita Dutta

soccer

Football writer at The Playoffs. I’ve been obsessed with the beautiful game since I was a kid.. Eventually, I realized I could combine my passion for writing with my love for football, and I’ve never looked back. My favorite part of the job is everything—when you’re doing what you love, even a late-night deadline feels like extra time in a thrilling cup final. Lastly, Lionel Messi is the GOAT.