Barcelona reach agreement to sign Nico Williams on six-year contract as Lamine Yamal's Spain team-mate edges closer to sealing blockbuster transfer from Athletic Club

According to Foot Mercato, the Blaugrana have reached a pre-agreement with Williams for a six-year contract that would keep him at Camp Nou until the summer of 2031. The explosive winger is now close to linking up with teenage sensation Lamine Yamal, with whom he has built up a strong relationship for the Spain national team. Forming a dynamic new wing partnership in Hansi Flick's attacking plans, Williams is set to earn €12 million (£10m/$14m) at Barca if the deal goes through.

Barcelona’s interest in Williams dates back more than a year. The club initially made him a top target last summer, but the acquisition of Dani Olmo had significantly strained the club’s limited transfer resources, shelving plans for another marquee signing. Moreover, club president Joan Laporta has reportedly been impressed with Williams' determination to wear the Barcelona shirt. Several recent meetings between the winger’s camp and club executives have been held to iron out the framework of the proposed transfer. Williams will be free to complete the transfer once Barca agree on a fee with Athletic Club, who are said to be demanding €60 million for the winger.

Williams has enjoyed a meteoric rise over the past two seasons, and his latest campaign with Athletic was no exception. He contributed five goals and five assists in 29 La Liga appearances, while playing a pivotal role in their Europa League campaign, scoring five times and assisting three more en route to a semi-final finish. His performances earned him a spot in the Europa League Team of the Season.

Barcelona’s breakthrough in negotiations with Williams comes at the expense of several major European clubs. Arsenal, Chelsea, and Bayern Munich had all expressed strong interest in the Spain international. Chelsea were believed to be monitoring his situation throughout the season, while Bayern reportedly engaged in talks shortly before their squad travelled to the United States for the Club World Cup. Ultimately, Williams’ preference to stay in Spain and join a project that includes fellow La Roja talent Yamal appears to have swung the deal decisively in Barcelona’s favour.