Nico Williams Shows Loyalty: Rejects Move to Giants

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    <p>Bayern Munich Expresses Interest</p>

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        <p><img alt="Nico Williams turns down Barcelona and Bayern Munich for new deal with Athletic Bilbao" src="https://tmssl.akamaized.net//images/foto/galerie/williams-spot-1751620147-171593.png" title="Nico Williams turns down Barcelona and Bayern Munich for new deal with Athletic Bilbao"></img></p>
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    <p>Nico Williams has decided to stay at Athletic Club amidst heavy speculation regarding a move to Barcelona this summer. The Catalan club had earmarked the Spanish international as their top target for next season, with reports suggesting that his transfer was practically a done deal. However, Williams has signed an eight-year contract extension that keeps him at his boyhood club until 2035.</p>

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    <p>Having advanced through Athletic Bilbao’s youth system, Williams has made 167 appearances for the club and contributed to 61 goals. There was widespread expectation that he would leave this summer, especially with a release clause set at €58 million, but this has now risen to approximately €90 million following his new contract. Upon signing his extension, Williams stated, “When it comes to making decisions, the most important thing is to listen to your heart. This is where I want to be, with my people. This is my home.”</p>

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    <h2>Nico Williams Leaves Barcelona Disappointed</h2>

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    <p>Barcelona's pursuit of Williams has been well-documented, and this latest decision adds to the frustration, as the 22-year-old also turned down a move last summer. With pre-season training set to begin next week, Williams wanted clarity on his future, but Barcelona couldn't provide the funds to meet his release clause.</p>

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    <p><img alt="" height="629" src="https://tmssl.akamaized.net//images/foto/newsansicht/williams-extension-1751620172-171594.png?lm=1751620180" width="503"></img> Barcelona’s ongoing financial struggles have been widely reported, creating challenges in securing new players. Their wage bill has exceeded La Liga regulations, complicating efforts to register new signings. While Williams commands a significant salary at Athletic, Barcelona was not in a position to accommodate him without first reducing their roster. Bayern Munich had also shown interest in acquiring Williams this summer but he will continue to play for Bilbao.</p>
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