Top Barcelona transfer target "does not regret" turning down Camp Nou move

There was a host of speculation surrounding Nico Williams's future over the summer, with Barcelona believed to have identified the attacker as their number one transfer target.

The Catalan outfit are thought to have activated the €55m (£47m) release clause in his deal, but the Spain forward decided to remain with Athletic in order to represent the club in Europe this season.

Williams has made a slow start to the 2024-25 campaign, only managing one goal in seven appearances in all competitions, but an excellent 2023-24 season saw him score eight goals and register 19 assists in 37 games.

Barcelona are flying high at the top of the La Liga table, winning all seven of their domestic games this term, but Nico Williams does not regret rejecting Hansi Flick's side, according to his brother and teammate.

Nico Williams rejected summer move to Barcelona

"My brother would have to answer that question for you, but I hope we can play together for as long as possible. He has already said that he is very happy here, very happy at Athletic and that it is the best decision he has made," Inaki Williams told AS.

"He has said that he does not regret it and that makes me happy. Sharing a dressing room every day with him is the most beautiful thing there is and I hope it lasts for a long time to come."

Nico Williams has made 129 appearances for Athletic in all competitions, scoring 21 goals and registering 26 assists in the process.

The forward is also now a key player for Spain, scoring four goals and contributing six assists in 22 appearances for his country, including two goals and one assist at Euro 2024.

Will Barcelona reignite their interest in Williams?

Barcelona are still believed to be interested in Williams, and it would certainly not be a surprise to see the forward leave the club during next summer's transfer window.

There was also interest from the Premier League earlier this year, with Arsenal and Liverpool both believed to be keen, so there could be a scramble for his signature in 2025.

Nico Williams has not been at his best in the early stages of this season, but he helped Athletic beat both Las Palmas and Leganes in La Liga before missing the clash at Celta Vigo through injury.

The forward made his European debut for the Lions against Roma in the Europa League on Thursday night, meanwhile, playing 30 minutes of what proved to be a 1-1 draw in Rome.