In a bold and unprecedented move, Spanish international Nico Williams has signed a 10-year contract extension with Athletic Club, pledging his long-term future to the Basque side and dealing a major blow to several European giants chasing his signature.

The new deal will keep the 22-year-old winger at San Mamés until 2035, making it the longest contract in the club’s history. Sources close to the negotiations reveal that the agreement includes a release clause of approximately €90 million, a significant increase designed to fend off future interest.

Turning Down the Giants

Williams’ decision to stay comes amid strong interest from Barcelona, Bayern Munich, and Arsenal, all of whom had hoped to sign him during the summer transfer window. Barcelona, in particular, had reportedly reached advanced stages of discussions, and the club was “shocked and angry” after learning about the extension through Athletic’s official announcement.

“Everything indicated that Nico was coming,” a Barça source told Spanish media. “We had been negotiating for weeks. His decision caught us completely off guard.”

Bayern Munich, too, had shown serious intent, but Williams ultimately opted to stay loyal to his boyhood club.

A Statement of Loyalty

Speaking after signing the deal, Williams emphasized the emotional weight behind his decision:

“When I make decisions, I always follow my heart. This club raised me, and I feel at home here—with my people, my family, and the fans who’ve supported me from day one.”

What This Means for Athletic Club

This landmark deal sends a powerful message: Athletic Club is serious about building a team that can compete at the highest levels in Spain and Europe. Locking down one of their brightest stars for the next decade gives them a stable foundation for future success.

The raised release clause also ensures that any future bids will need to meet a premium valuation, reflecting Williams’ growing stature in world football.