In a stunning twist to the summer transfer window, Spanish international Nico Williams has officially signed a new long-term contract with Athletic Club, committing his future to the Basque side until June 2035.

The highly sought-after winger had been heavily linked with a move to FC Barcelona, but sources confirm that the deal is off due to the Catalan club’s ongoing registration issues—a recurring hurdle caused by La Liga’s strict financial regulations.

What’s in the New Deal?

According to reports, Nico’s fresh agreement with Athletic includes:

A salary increase rewarding his rise to stardom. A significantly higher release clause—reportedly more than 50% above the previous €58 million tag, pushing it well beyond €85 million.

This effectively prices out most suitors and signals Athletic’s clear intent to build their project around the 21-year-old dynamo.

Why the Barcelona Deal Collapsed

Despite ongoing negotiations and strong interest from manager Hansi Flick, Barcelona’s inability to register players under La Liga’s Financial Fair Play rules proved to be a deal-breaker. The Blaugrana were simply not in a position to trigger the winger’s clause or meet salary demands without offloading players.

Barcelona fans may be disappointed, but the collapse of the move was beyond technical ability—purely financial red tape sealed the decision.

What This Means Going Forward

Athletic Club cements its hold on one of Europe’s most exciting young attackers. Barcelona, once again, faces reality checks in the transfer market amid economic limitations. Clubs in England or Germany eyeing Nico now face a much steeper cost—financially and competitively.

Quick Facts – Nico Williams’ 2024/25 Season So Far:

11 goals

9 assists

La Liga Team of the Season nominee

Key player in Spain’s EURO 2024 run

Verdict:

This move is a huge statement from Athletic Club—and a clear message to Europe’s elite: if you want Nico, you’ll have to pay a premium.

Barcelona have reignited their interest in Dutch full-back Denzel Dumfries, with new manager Hansi Flick keen on bolstering his options on the right flank. According to reports from Spain and Italy, the Catalan giants are seriously considering the Inter Milan defender, who impressed in the UEFA Champions League semi-finals against Barça last season.

Flick’s Tactical Vision

Since his arrival, Flick has made it clear he wants a more dynamic presence at full-back, particularly down the right. While Jules Koundé, Eric García, and youngster Héctor Fort are all options, none offer the attacking threat or physical intensity that Dumfries consistently delivers.

The 28-year-old Dutch international fits the mould of an aggressive wing-back—strong going forward, quick in transition, and disciplined in defence. He registered two goals and three assists across both legs against Barcelona in the Champions League, performances that reportedly left a lasting impression on the Blaugrana staff.

A €25 Million Opportunity

Dumfries has a €25 million release clause, which remains valid until mid-July. This gives Barcelona a narrow window to trigger the deal before Inter Milan re-evaluates their asking price or opens talks for a contract extension.

While €25 million is considered reasonable for a player of Dumfries’ calibre, Barça’s current financial restrictions mean the club must first free up space under La Liga’s salary cap rules. The “1:1 rule” requires Barcelona to match every euro spent with one earned or saved, adding complexity to any incoming transfers.

Financial Juggling and Next Steps

To proceed with the Dumfries deal, Barcelona are expected to offload players to generate funds and reduce their wage bill. Names like Sergiño Dest, Marcos Alonso, and Clément Lenglet are believed to be on the exit list.

If they can successfully balance the books, Dumfries could become Barça’s first major signing of the summer and a vital cog in Flick’s tactical system. Sources close to the club believe a formal bid could be submitted in the coming days, should the financial green light be given.

A Strategic Fit

For Flick, Dumfries offers more than just depth. His physicality, overlapping runs, and ability to stretch defences could provide a new dimension to Barcelona’s right flank—particularly important as the team looks to reassert itself both in La Liga and Europe.

With just days left before the clause expires, the coming week will be critical in determining whether Denzel Dumfries becomes the next chapter in Barcelona’s summer rebuild.

In a solemn and deeply emotional gesture, Liverpool Football Club has confirmed that it will immortalise the iconic number 20 shirt in honour of Diogo Jota, who tragically lost his life—and that of his brother André Silva—on July 3, 2025, in a car accident in Zamora, Spain.

The Portugal international, aged just 28, joined Liverpool in September 2020 from Wolverhampton Wanderers. Over five seasons, he amassed 182 appearances and netted 65 goals—playing a pivotal role in Liverpool’s Premier League triumph during the 2024–25 season, alongside winning the FA and League Cups.

READ ALSO: JUST IN: Liverpool Star Diogo Jota, 28, Dies in Tragic Car Crash Alongside Brother in Spain

Liverpool’s official tribute described the decision to immortalise the No. 20 shirt as “rightly immortalised,” linking it poignantly to Jota’s contribution to the club’s historic 20th league title.

The shocking news of Jota’s passing reverberated around the world. Emergency services confirmed that a tyre blowout caused their Lamborghini to veer off the A-52 motorway near Cernadilla, catching fire on impact, tragically killing both brothers at the scene. Jota had recently celebrated his marriage on June 22 and was a devoted father of three.

Liverpool’s statement described the loss as “unimaginable,” affirming the club will continue to support his family. Manager Arne Slot, along with former boss Jürgen Klopp and former teammates, further paid heartfelt tribute.

Fans have united at Anfield and across social media demanding that the No. 20 shirt be retired as a lasting homage. Liverpool have confirmed they will ensure the shirt remains forever part of the club’s heritage, a symbol of Jota’s passion, professionalism, and legacy.

What Happens Next?

The No. 20 shirt will be preserved in the club’s records and museum, never to be worn again. Supporters and the club will take part in tribute events, including moments of silence and a book of condolences at Anfield. Club merchandise and charity initiatives are expected to honour Jota’s memory, with proceeds supporting his family.

As Liverpool fans continue to mourn and reflect on one of the most shocking losses in football, the immortalised No. 20 stands as a powerful testament: Diogo Jota’s spirit, goals, and character will forever be part of Liverpool’s rich tapestry. You’ll Never Walk Alone, Number 20.