The breakdown in negotiations came following the revelation that Barcelona are not yet operating under La Liga’s 1:1 financial rules and, as it stands, would not be able to register Williams in their squad—a similar dilemma which plagued the club after last season’s acquisition of Dani Olmo.

Nico Williams has signed a new contract with Athletic Club until 2035, snubbing Barcelona's advances to sign him from the Basque side this summer.