Is Nico Williams to Barcelona off?! Why blockbuster move for Athletic Club star has suddenly stalled as Blaugrana are hit by 'complete surprise' in transfer negotiations - explained

Barcelona have been working for weeks to finalise a move for Athletic Club winger Williams. However, talks have hit a major stumbling block, per Mundo Deportivo. While the player is pushing for a transfer to Camp Nou, the Catalan club’s inability to meet specific demands - particularly around registration assurances - has put the move at risk.

The collapse of the deal would represent a huge blow to Barcelona’s summer plans. New boss Hansi Flick sees the winger as a key figure for his new-look side, but the club’s precarious financial standing continues to complicate even straightforward signings. Williams has made it clear he wants to join the Blaugrana, but Athletic Club are growing increasingly impatient, and there’s a real chance the player could be forced to consider alternatives if the situation doesn’t change fast. The delay in the signing of the deal reportedly stems from the fact that Williams' agent is making extra demands from Barcelona, and the winger also has asked for assurances over his registration - something that wasn't demanded earlier by Williams' camp, and comes as a 'complete surprise' to Barca.

While Barcelona struggle to close the deal, Bayern Munich are still circling. The Bundesliga giants have made it known to Athletic Club that they are prepared to pay Williams’ full €58 million (£49.6m) release clause, plus add-ons, which will push he final sum closer to €62 million (£53m). The strained relationship between Athletic Club and Barca may also favour the Bavarians, with the Basque club more open to a move abroad than to a direct sale to a domestic rival.

Despite the reports regarding the breakdown in talks between Barcelona and Williams' camp, Gerard Romero has claimed that the Spain international's entourage are calm. The report states that the documents for the deal are already prepared, and the Catalan side are ready to strike as soon as an agreement with the winger’s camp is reached.