Barcelona facing major transfer blow as top target considers snubbing move?

The 22-year-old is attracting significant interest after enjoying a productive season and a superb Euro 2024 campaign.

Last term, Williams scored eight goals and provided 19 assists in 37 competitive appearances, helping Athletic win the Copa del Rey and achieve a fifth-place finish.

The attacker went on to play a crucial role in Spain's successful European Championship campaign, starting six of his country's seven matches and registering three goal contributions, including an important strike in the 2-1 win over England in the final.

Barcelona are currently leading the race to sign the Euro 2024 winner, who has a €58m (£48.9m) release clause in his Athletic contract.

Barcelona at risk of missing out on Williams

It was recently reported that Barcelona had reached an agreement with Williams's agent over a five-year contract with increasing wages for each season.

However, according to Fabrizio Romano, Barcelona are still waiting for Williams to make a final decision over his future, raising the prospect that he could opt to turn down a move to the Catalan giants.

The update suggests that Williams will make a decision in the near future, with the forward keen to remain in Spain amid interest from Paris Saint-Germain and clubs in the Premier League.

Although Williams is currently under contract until June 2027, Athletic have already prepared a new contract with higher wages should the player decide to remain at San Mames this summer.

Why could Williams stay at Athletic?

On the face of it, a potential move to Barcelona should be an appealing option, especially as it would give Williams the chance to test himself in the Champions League.

However, the forward has a special emotional connection to Athletic - a club that only uses players who are born or brought up in the Basque country.

Not only has Williams been with the club for 11 years, but he also enjoys playing alongside his older brother Inaki Williams.

When fit, the pair are guaranteed starters in Ernesto Valverde's lineup and were both instrumental in a successful 2023-24 campaign.

If the 22-year-old were to stay at San Mames, he would get the chance to create more memories by playing European football with his brother, with Athletic set to compete in the main draw of the Europa League.