Laporta Rebukes Athletic Bilbao Over Nico Williams Dispute
Barcelona has reached a verbal understanding with Williams, including a contract reportedly running until 2031, pending full agreement on his €60–64 million release clause.
Barcelona FC President Joan Laporta. Photo/Getty Images.
By Robert Assad
FC Barcelona president Joan Laporta criticized Athletic Bilbao’s decision to involve La Liga in the club’s pursuit of winger Nico Williams, saying each club “should focus on their own things,” and questioned why Athletic would discuss Barcelona’s business with the league.
Laporta said the two clubs enjoy a long-standing relationship despite recent “misunderstandings,” and that Barcelona is in compliance with La Liga’s 1:1 financial rule, enabling them to sign players normally.
It is unclear whether Athletic’s actions will affect Barcelona’s ability to register Williams. The wing transfer window opens July 1.
Laporta made the remarks during a presentation for his videopodcast “La llotja del 125” at the Palau de la Música, after journalists pressed him on Athletic’s intent to report Barcelona’s financial dealings to La Liga and the Spanish Football Federation.
He emphasized that Barcelona’s return to the 1:1 salary rule is being managed, noting the club had operated under it during the winter transfer window and remains on track to sign players legally.
Athletic Club, led by president Jon Uriarte and director general Jon Berasategi, has escalated its objections, dispatching representatives to Madrid to demand clarity on Barcelona’s finances and express concern over deceptive reports about Williams—such as stories of him emptying his locker or receiving installment agreements. Athletic insists Barcelona has yet to fully comply with financial fair play requirements.
Barcelona has reached a verbal understanding with Williams, including a contract reportedly running until 2031, pending full agreement on his €60–64 million release clause. Athletic is countering with an attractive renewal offer to keep him beyond his 2027 contract expiry.
Analysts say Barcelona faces a challenge registering Williams under La Liga’s salary cap and awaits league approval, while Athletic aims to block or delay the move via oversight mechanisms.
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