### Nico Williams Commits to Athletic Club: A Surprising Turn in Transfer Speculation Nico Williams, the talented Spanish winger, has made headlines by signing a remarkable 10-year contract extension with Athletic Club, keeping him at the Basque club until 2035. This decision comes after intense speculation linking him to a move to Barcelona, which had shown significant interest in acquiring the 22-year-old player. Williams' choice to remain with Athletic Club not only solidifies his commitment to the team but also ends the transfer rumors that had surrounded him this summer [https://newstodaynet.com/2025/07/05/nico-williams-signs-10-year-athletic-club-deal][https://www.espn.com/soccer/story/_/id/45666531/nico-williams-shuns-barcelona-signs-new-athletic-club-deal]. ### Breakdown of the Transfer Situation 1. **Contract Details**: - Williams has signed a 10-year deal with Athletic Club, extending his stay until 2035 [https://www.bluewin.ch/en/index/nico-williams-surprisingly-opts-for-bilbao-2769542.html]. - The contract includes an increased release clause, which is expected to deter potential suitors [https://www.thedailystar.net/sports/football/news/nico-williams-pens-new-athletic-bilbao-deal-transfer-twist-3932296]. 2. **Interest from Other Clubs**: - Barcelona was the primary contender for Williams, having identified him as a key target for their squad [https://www.transfermarkt.co.uk/barcelona-rejected-nico-williams-signs-new-athletic-club-contract-as-release-clause-soars/view/news/456494]. - Arsenal also expressed interest, monitoring the situation closely in case Barcelona's financial constraints hindered the transfer [https://www.yardbarker.com/soccer/articles/arsenal_target_gets_a_new_release_clause_after_making_a_ten-year-decision/s1_15968_42415272]. 3. **Speculation and Reactions**: - Initial reports suggested that Williams was leaning towards a move to Barcelona, creating excitement about a potential partnership with fellow player Lamine Yamal [https://www.football.london/arsenal-fc/transfer-news/nico-williams-drops-huge-transfer-31991699]. - However, the unexpected decision to extend his contract with Athletic Club has shocked many in the football community, including Barcelona fans and analysts [https://www.businessupturn.com/sports/soccer/barcelona-get-a-huge-shock-as-nico-williams-sign-a-new-contract-at-athletic-bilbao]. ### Supporting Evidence and Data - **Contract Duration**: Williams' new contract runs until 2035, marking a significant commitment to Athletic Club [https://www.vancouverisawesome.com/soccer/spain-winger-nico-williams-agrees-to-stay-at-athletic-bilbao-for-the-coming-decade-10900375]. - **Release Clause**: The new contract reportedly includes a higher release clause, which is a strategic move to maintain his value and deter other clubs from pursuing him [https://www.football.london/arsenal-fc/transfer-news/arsenal-set-nico-williams-meeting-31992062]. - **Market Impact**: The decision has implications for both Barcelona and Arsenal, as they will need to reassess their transfer strategies following this development [https://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-news/arsenal-summer-transfers-arteta-williams-35485290]. ### Conclusion: A Strategic Move for Williams and Athletic Club In summary, **Nico Williams' decision to sign a 10-year contract with Athletic Club is a significant development in the football transfer market**. This move not only secures his future with the club but also sends a clear message to other teams about his commitment. 1. Williams has chosen stability over the allure of a high-profile transfer to Barcelona. 2. The increased release clause in his contract indicates Athletic Club's intent to retain their star player. 3. This decision impacts the transfer strategies of both Barcelona and Arsenal, who were keen on acquiring him. Overall, Williams' commitment to Athletic Club is a testament to his loyalty and the club's ambition, setting the stage for an exciting future in La Liga [https://www.beinsports.com/en-us/soccer/la-liga/articles/the-saga-is-over-nico-williams-rejects-barcelona-and-extends-his-contract-with-athletic-club-2025-07-04].