Nico Williams' U-turn! Barcelona transfer target signs new TEN-year contract with Athletic Club with 'release clause increase by more than 50%'

On Friday morning, Athletic Club made the surprise announcement that Williams has signed a new contract with his boyhood club. The 22-year-old was expected to be announced as a new Barcelona player in the coming weeks, with reports suggesting that the Catalan side had agreed to personal terms with Williams. The Spain international has signed a massive 10-year deal at San Mames until the summer of 2035.

Speaking to club media, Williams said: "When it comes to making decisions, the most important thing is to listen to your heart.

"I am in the place where I want to be, with my people. This is my home. Aupa Athletic!"

Athletic Club have been involved in what can only be described as a spat with Barcelona since last summer; however, it was this season where the real throw-down took place between the two La Liga sides. After Barcelona pushed on to try and sign Williams this summer, Athletic reached out to La Liga to inspect the Catalan side's finances. Having confirmed Williams' extension, Athletic included a dig at Barcelona as they added a hashtag which read: AthleticWIN.

Hansi Flick's Barcelona are likely to now make a move for Manchester United's Marcus Rashford or Liverpool's Luis Diaz. They will be hoping that they can improve the squad heading into next season and potentially beat Athletic Club through the campaign.