Barcelona president Joan Laporta has stated that the club is “prepared” to meet Nico Williams’ €58 million ($67.8m) release clause, despite objections from Athletic Club regarding Barcelona’s financial prowess.
Athletic announced on Thursday that they held a meeting with LaLiga to discuss Barça’s compliance with the league’s financial fair play regulations, given their past issues with registering players, particularly Dani Olmo. Following the recent acquisition of Espanyol goalkeeper Joan García for €25m ($29.2m), Laporta communicated that Barça is ready to make further moves in the transfer market.
In the past, Barça has faced restrictions limiting their spending to a small fraction of what they have gained through transfers or saved via cutbacks. “We are complying with all the requirements demanded by LaLiga and the fair play rules to seize market opportunities,” the Barça president added.
He also sought to minimize the tension with Athletic, who criticized Barça’s pursuit of Williams, contracted until 2027 at San Mamés. “Everyone does what they think is best,” Laporta said, alluding to Athletic’s conversations with LaLiga and their interest in learning more about Barça’s financial status.
“With the help of our coach and football director, we are seizing business opportunities as needed by Barça. I have nothing more to say about it; let Athletic handle their own affairs. As much as I value what they do, I hope they value what we do.
Laporta expressed their worries over Barça’s business practices. “LaLiga is aware that club accounts need to be kept private. They can check our accounts without any problems; we have nothing to hide,” he said. “But they should also make sure that everyone is treated fairly.”
Meanwhile, Williams has expressed his desire to leave Athletic this summer, as confirmed by a source to ESPN. The agent of the Spain international, Felix Tainta, informed Athletic earlier this week of Williams’ intentions, although he did not specify a preferred destination.
Barça initially pursued Williams last summer, but the deal collapsed over registration concerns, leading to the signing of Olmo instead. The 22-year-old, who shares the pitch with his brother Iñaki at San Mamés, has made 167 appearances for Athletic since joining the first team in 2021, netting 31 goals.
