Nico Williams signs for eight years extension with athletic Bilbao in the middle of Barcelona-Links

Winger Nico Williams has signed a new eight-year contract extension that will hold him in Athletic Bilbao until 2035, De la Liga-Club said on Friday, with a termination of speculation about a potential departure to Barcelona.

Athletic added that the Williams transfer clause was increased by more than 50%, with reports in the Spanish media that say that the earlier clause was worth around 62 million euros ($ 73.01 million).

The 22-year-old Spain International, whose previous contract ran until 2027, is one of the most appreciated assets in Athletic and has made 167 performances in all competitions.

«When it comes to making decisions, the most important thing for me is to listen to your heart. I am where I want to be, with my people, this is my home,» Williams said in a statement.

Last month, Athletic fans who erased Williams screamed from a mural with him and his brother Inaki, who also plays for the club, amidst reports that link him with a move to La Liga champions Barcelona.

The wall painting became illegible after Barca sports director Deco said they could focus on the winger, who scored in last year’s European champion finale against England to guide Spain to a fourth fourth title.