Nico Williams has finally opened up on why he chose to reject a transfer to Barcelona in favour of signing a new contract with Athletic Club. The Catalan giants were very close to signing the winger this summer, however, the 23-year-old eventually decided to stay in Bilbao as he committed to a new ten-year deal that will keep him at San Mames until 2035.

La Liga president Javier Tebas finds himself at the center of fresh controversy following claims that he may have deliberately hindered Barcelona’s attempt to sign Spain international Nico Williams this summer. The shocking accusation comes amid reports that confidential financial data relating to Barcelona was shared with Athletic Bilbao officials, allegedly swaying Williams’ decision to remain at his boyhood club.

Former Barcelona president Joan Gaspart didn't mince his words while speaking about Nico Williams and his agent after the winger stayed put in Bilbao.

Barcelona were running out of patience with Nico Williams and his agent before the Spain international commited his future to Athletic Club by signing a new long-term contract. Williams was once again closely linked with a move to the Blaugrana this summer after transfer talks broke down last year, however, the winger eventually penned a new Atheltic Club contract which runs until 2035.

Jude Bellingham gave a brutal response as Nico Williams snubbed a move to Barcelona in favour of an Athletic Club stay. The Spanish winger infuriated the Camp Nou hierarchy after choosing loyalty over glamour after he turned down a high-profile move to the Blaugranas and instead penned a long-term extension with his boyhood club.