Bayern Munich are stepping up their interest in Athletic Club’s Nico Williams, hoping to benefit from delays in his potential move to Barcelona. As reported by Sky Sports Germany, the Bundesliga champions are intensifying efforts to secure the Spanish winger’s signature, especially as questions remain over Barcelona’s ability to complete the transfer.
Bayern, intent on strengthening the left flank, have not given up on Williams despite Barcelona’s advanced talks with the player. The German club have reportedly improved their financial proposal, now offering him €12 million per season after taxes in their latest attempt to convince him to join. While Barcelona have agreed on a six-year deal with the 21-year-old and are prepared to activate his release clause soon, progress has been hindered by additional conditions from his agent.
Both Barcelona and Athletic Club are expected to resume training sessions on July 13, a timeline which could see clarity on Williams’ future in the near term.
La Liga financial rules complicate Barcelona’s plans
One of the key factors delaying Williams’ transfer to Camp Nou is Barcelona’s ongoing struggle with La Liga’s financial regulations. On Tuesday, La Liga president Javier Tebas reiterated that the club is still not in compliance with the league’s 1:1 spending ratio and therefore cannot register new signings like Williams until that is resolved.
This regulatory hurdle has opened a window for Bayern, who are actively searching for attacking options following squad changes. With Leroy Sane already departed and Thomas Muller expected to leave, the German side faces urgent needs in the final third and sees Williams as a prime candidate to fill the gap.
Bayern explore other options while pursuit continues
Although Williams remains a priority, Bayern are also monitoring several other wingers as they evaluate all possibilities. Liverpool’s Luis Diaz, another player of interest to Barcelona, is among the alternatives on their radar. The Bavarians have also shown intent to bring in Chelsea-bound Jamie Gittens, while other names under consideration include Rafael Leao from AC Milan and Dutch international Cody Gakpo.
In addition to wide players, Bayern are also eyeing Stuttgart forward Nick Woltemade, although he is being viewed more as a potential deputy to Harry Kane rather than a solution on the wing.
For now, Williams’ final decision remains pending, with his personal desire leaning toward joining the reigning La Liga champions. However, unless Barcelona can sort out their financial restrictions, Bayern may yet succeed in securing one of Spain’s brightest young talents.
