

FC Barcelona is eagerly advancing towards bringing Nico Williams into their ranks, having secured the talented player's commitment on a robust six-year contract, reportedly valued at approximately seven million euros per season. Yet, the Catalan club now faces the formidable task of persuading Athletic Bilbao to accept a staggered payment plan for the substantial 62 million euro release clause.
Barcelona is acutely aware of Athletic’s firm stance on the clause—58 million euros plus additional taxes to reach the full 62 million—but holds hopes of negotiating a more accommodating payment structure. Alas, the historically frosty relations between the two clubs are proving a significant stumbling block.
Insider whispers suggest Barcelona could propose a solution similar to Real Sociedad's agreement with Arsenal for Martin Zubimendi, where in Arsenal consented to paying above the release clause in return for easier payment terms spread over time.