Barcelona prepares large fund to bring Nico Williams from Athletic Bilbao

Barcelona president Joan Laporta shows serious intent to acquire Athletic Bilbao winger Nico Williams — despite recent reports linking the player to Real Madrid.

The 22-year-old Williams has expressed desire to join Barcelona — aiming to form an attacking partnership with Lamine Yamal.

Athletic Bilbao has set a release clause of 58 million euros for Williams, but Barcelona must consider their financial situation — having spent 25 million euros to sign goalkeeper Joan Garcia from Espanyol.

Athletic Bilbao reportedly remains skeptical about Barcelona’s financial capability to trigger the release clause — even though Williams is willing to accept a significant salary reduction.