Buzz off Barca! Athletic Club move to block suitors from Nico Williams

LALIGA side Athletic Club have not resigned to losing Nico Williams this summer and are said to be making concrete efforts to keep their coveted talent. 

The 22-year-old had a brilliant season in the Spanish top flight last season, registering 11 assists and scoring five goals. He was already on the radar of top clubs; however, his performance for Spain's European Championship-winning side cranked up the urgency of signing him for top clubs. 

However, Athletic Club, set to compete in the Europa League next season, are keen on keeping him.

Their club president, Jon Uriarte, previously expressed this desire, decrying the reports linking the Spanish-Ghanian with a move away from the club. They are now set to offer him a new contract in a bid to stave off suitors. 

Despite signing a contract renewal last season, Athletic Club are reportedly set to offer the winger a new contract, which will make him the highest-paid player in the club's history, according to Fabrizio Romano. 

Should the Spain international decide to stay, he will not only get a bump in pay, but his release clause will also increase from €58 million to €100 million. 

Meanwhile, Barcelona supporters have initiated a social media crowdfunding campaign to bring Athletic Bilbao's Nico Williams and Lamine Yamal together at Camp Nou.