Nico Williams was open to joining Real Madrid instead of Barcelona as winger's flirtation with Clasico rivals sparked La Liga champions into action to sign Athletic Club star

Williams is closing in on a move to Barca, but only after the club was jolted into action by Real Madrid’s interest and his flirtation with them. According to journalist Miguel Rico, the Athletic Club winger told friends at Barca that he was open to joining Los Blancos if his preferred move to Camp Nou did not materialise. Madrid’s involvement forced sporting director Deco and the Barca board to re-engage seriously with Nico’s camp. Negotiations accelerated quickly from there, with personal terms now agreed.

The Blaugrana club had previously shelved their interest in Nico after he renewed with Athletic until 2027, believing the door was closed. But Nico's release clause, which is €62 million (£53m/$67m) in total due to (Consumer Price Index) changes, remained untouched. Meanwhile, a potential deal for Liverpool's Luis Diaz stalled due to his higher asking price and age. Williams, still only 22, became Hansi Flick’s priority target for the left wing, offering youth, elite-level experience and a financially viable deal.

Williams has already made 167 senior appearances for Athletic Club at just 22. He won the Copa del Rey with Athletic and posted 31 goals and registering 30 career assists already. His brother, Inaki, is now Athletic's captain following Oscar de Marcos’ retirement.

Barca aim to finalise the signing soon, and with personal terms agreed and Williams pushing for the move, the deal hinges on the La Liga champions paying the release clause in one go, something the club are confident they can do, despite registration warnings from La Liga president Javier Tebas.