Spain (BN24) – Spain forward Nico Williams has committed his long-term future to Athletic Bilbao, signing a contract extension that will keep him at the Basque club until 2035 and effectively ending months of speculation linking him with a move to Barcelona.
The club confirmed the new deal on Friday, describing it as a major victory for Athletic amid what it called “dizzying offers” for the 22-year-old. Under the agreement, Williams’ contract has been extended by eight years, and his release clause has been increased by 50 percent, underscoring Bilbao’s determination to retain their prized talent.
“When you have to make decisions, for me what matters most is the heart,” Williams said in the club’s announcement. “I am where I want to be, with my people. This is my home.”
Williams has emerged as one of Spanish football’s most electrifying young attackers, developing in the same academy system that produced his older brother and teammate, Iñaki Williams. Since breaking into the first team, Nico has scored 31 goals over five seasons and established himself as a cornerstone of Bilbao’s resurgence.
His pace and creativity were pivotal in Athletic’s historic 2024 Copa del Rey triumph, which ended a 40-year wait for the trophy. The club also secured qualification for the 2025–26 Champions League, adding fresh momentum to their revival.
Interest in Williams has soared over the past year, with Barcelona and Arsenal both reportedly exploring bids to lure him away from San Mamés. However, Bilbao officials worked intensively to finalize the renewal and stave off rival suitors.
Williams has also solidified his place in the Spain national team, playing a starring role at Euro 2024. He was named player of the match in the final as La Roja defeated England to lift the European Championship, further raising his profile across Europe.
