Published on Jul 02, 2025
With the 2025 summer transfer window heating up, Bayern Munich have re-entered the race for Nico Williams, hoping to capitalize on Barcelona’s ongoing struggle to register the Spanish winger due to La Liga’s financial restrictions. What once looked like a sealed transfer now hangs in the balance, with both clubs locked in a tense standoff.
Barcelona were widely expected to complete the signing of Williams after agreeing to activate his €60 million release clause from Athletic Club. A six-year contract was reportedly in place, offering the player a net salary of €7–8 million per season.
However, La Liga president Javier Tebas confirmed that Barcelona currently cannot register Williams because the club has yet to comply with the league’s 1:1 financial rule, which demands clubs match every euro spent with a euro in revenue. Until they balance their books, Barcelona cannot officially add Williams to their squad.
Sensing an opening, Bayern Munich have reignited their interest. The German giants are prepared to offer Williams a more lucrative deal €12 million net per season should the transfer to Barcelona collapse. While Bayern had previously backed off due to the player’s strong inclination toward Camp Nou, the uncertainty surrounding Barcelona’s finances has encouraged them to step back in.
Despite Bayern’s more attractive financial offer, Nico Williams remains committed to a move to Barcelona. He’s keen to play under Hansi Flick and alongside emerging talents like Lamine Yamal, seeing the move as a step forward in his career.
However, the delay is causing tension. His representatives are reportedly demanding written guarantees that Barcelona will be able to register him before the July 5 deadline. If assurances are not received, Williams may be forced to reconsider his options.
Barcelona view Williams as a cornerstone of their post-rebuild future. His arrival would strengthen a front line that has lacked width and pace. But if they fail to resolve their registration issue in time, it would be a blow to both their summer plans and their credibility in the market.
For Bayern Munich, signing Williams would reinforce their attack following Leroy Sané’s departure and align with their strategy of acquiring young, high-ceiling talents. His potential arrival would also fill a tactical gap as the Bavarians prepare for a new chapter under a restructured football department.
As the July 5 registration deadline looms, the clock is ticking. Barcelona must either offload players, restructure contracts, or find creative ways to meet financial rules. If they succeed, Williams is expected to be unveiled at Camp Nou within days.
If not, Bayern Munich are poised to pounce turning this transfer saga into one of the defining stories of the 2025 summer window.
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