Why Nico Williams is set to reject Barcelona

Nico Williams is reportedly set to reject Barcelona's approach and will instead continue at Athletic Club for next season. A recent report from Catalan media explains why, despite the player's keenness to join Barcelona and his fondness for Lamine Yamal. 

The Blaugrana had one main objective this summer transfer window: sign Nico Williams and recreate his partnership with Yamal that worked so well for Spain in Hansi Flick’s squad.

Nico has a €58 million release clause in his Athletic Club contract, a figure Barcelona are able to match. However, they had to reach an agreement with Nico Williams on personal terms, and negotiations have gone on for weeks. 

Reports coming out from Spain in recent days suggest that Williams is set to turn down Barcelona due to pressure from two major aspects of his life. 

According to AS and as reported by Pulse Sports, Athletic Club are applying pressure from their end, as they have not resigned to losing the winger this summer. 

They are reportedly prepared to offer him a new wage package superior to his brother Inaki’s, effectively making him the highest-paid player in the club's history. 

Williams is also facing pressure from his family, who want the 22-year-old to continue at their region's club for at least one more season.