Barcelona hold talks with Nico Williams with Spanish superstar weighing up move away from Athletic Club - as Lamine Yamal drops hint on potential link-up

Barcelona have reopened talks with Williams' camp, including his agent Felix Tainta, per Spanish publication Sport, with Deco leading efforts to lure the 22-year-old away from Athletic Club. The Spanish winger is open to the move — but only if Barca show full commitment to paying his €62m release clause and guaranteeing a smooth registration process, something that has ailed the Catalan side over the last few years.

Williams is also being chased by Arsenal and Bayern Munich, who are ready to activate the clause and offer big contracts; however, their proposals haven’t yet convinced him to move abroad. If he leaves Athletic, he’d prefer to stay in La Liga, and Barcelona are said to be the Spain international's top choice.

Barcelona still view Liverpool winger Luis Diaz as their main target and are also considering Manchester United outcast Marcus Rashford, but a recent meeting with Williams’ agent has reignited their interest. Whether they finally make the move depends on how serious they are this time, and whether they can make proper guarantees to the talented player.

The Spaniard will likely be open to a move to Barcelona as it would reunite him with his Spanish national teammate Lamine Yamal. To stoke the fire amid the reports, the 17-year-old posted a photo of himself and Williams celebrating, minutes after the story broke.

Instagram (@lamineyamal)