Laporta Dismisses Bilbao President’s Call to Cancel Nico Williams Transfer: “It’s Their Problem”
Barcelona president Joan Laporta insists the club is following LaLiga’s rules as Athletic Bilbao attempts to block the transfer of Nico Williams.
A transfer tug-of-war is unfolding in Spain, as Athletic Bilbao president Jon Uriarte reportedly asked LaLiga and the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) to cancel Nico Williams’ move to FC Barcelona. In response, Joan Laporta dismissed the plea, affirming that Barcelona is in full compliance with the 1:1 financial rule imposed by LaLiga.
Laporta: “It’s their problem”
In a firm response to Uriarte’s actions, Barcelona president Laporta said:
“I don’t understand why Athletic Bilbao wants to talk about Barça with LaLiga. I don’t think it’s appropriate, but that’s their problem.”
The statement, released via journalist Fabrizio Romano, underscores Laporta’s confidence that Barça is not violating any financial rules, especially LaLiga’s 1:1 ratio regulation which allows clubs to spend on player wages and transfers based on equivalent revenue or cost-saving measures.
Bilbao’s move to block the transfer
On Wednesday (June 25), Jon Uriarte traveled to Madrid to meet with LaLiga and the RFEF, formally expressing doubts about Barcelona’s financial capabilities and transparency. According to Spanish outlet Sport, Bilbao requested the cancellation of Nico Williams’ transfer, arguing that Barça’s financial situation should prohibit the deal.
Despite the opposition, sources inside Barcelona claim that the club is actively working on player sales to make room for Williams under LaLiga’s registration rules.
Barça planning exits to sign Nico
Among the high-profile departures, Ansu Fati is nearing a move to Monaco, which would significantly reduce the club’s wage bill. Additionally, Hansi Flick has already greenlit two more exits to ease the financial strain and allow the club to register a marquee signing like Nico Williams.
Two young La Masia talents, Ander Astralaga and Sergi Domínguez, are also set to leave the club after struggling to find playing time under Flick. These moves are seen as part of a broader financial restructuring.
Athletic Bilbao won’t give up on Nico
Despite Nico Williams having a release clause of €50 million, Athletic Bilbao is reportedly not ready to back down. Sources close to the Basque club stated:
“Athletic will try until the last day to keep Nico Williams.”
However, with Laporta’s unwavering stance and the club preparing for the necessary outgoings, Barcelona remains confident that the Spanish international will wear Blaugrana colors next season.
