Negotiations hit a wall

Although Barça and Nico Williams had reached a verbal agreement —a six-year deal with a significant salary— the transfer has stalled at the contract-signing stage. The issue? The player’s camp is demanding formal registration guarantees, something the Catalan club is currently unable to provide due to ongoing financial restrictions.

From Nico’s side, they believe it's essential to have certainty before putting pen to paper. They don’t want any last-minute surprises come August.

Fear of recent flashbacks

And the hesitation is not without reason. Barça recently struggled to register Dani Olmo and Pau Víctor, raising concerns among incoming players. Nico’s agent doesn’t want a repeat of those situations and has made it clear: no guarantees, no deal.

Barça understands the concern and insists they’re working to resolve the salary cap issues to make things work on time.

Athletic keeping close watch

Meanwhile, Athletic Club is standing firm. They want the full release clause paid —around €58 million plus inflation adjustment— and have already met with LaLiga to ensure Barça would be able to register the player should the transfer go through.

They’ve ruled out creative solutions or delayed payments: it’s full cash or nothing.

A decisive week ahead

The week of July 1–2 will be key. Barça remains confident they can resolve the situation, unlock the necessary mechanisms, and close the deal. But for now, the operation is on hold.

What looked like the club’s big summer signing... now hangs by a thread.