Bayern Munich Rule Out Nico Williams Move Following Contract Extension

Bayern Munich have decided not to target Nico Williams as their top wing signing for next year. This decision comes after the Athletic Bilbao star signed a new contract with his club. The move comes amid rising transfer costs and a significant increase in the player’s release clause.

According to a previous report, Nico Williams signed a new contract that extends until 2035.

WHAT HOENESS SAID

Club president Uli Hoeness confirmed that Bayern have ended their pursuit of Nico Williams as a top priority. Speaking to local media, Hoeness suggested that Athletic Bilbao’s strategy is to raise the player’s value.

He said: “In my opinion Bilbao are just trying to get more money because next year he will cost more than €60m.” Williams’ new contract raises his release clause by over 50%.

His new deal reportedly includes a release clause upwards of €95-100 million, making him much harder to sign for interested clubs.

A previous report confirmed the increase in his release clause as a result of the new contract.

ATHLETIC BILBAO’S POSITION AND WILLIAMS’S FORM

Nico Williams has just agreed a long-term deal with Athletic Club, rejecting interest from both Bayern Munich and Barcelona. The winger has been central to Athletic’s successful 2024-25 season, scoring 12 goals and providing 10 assists in 35 La Liga appearances.

Last season, Nico Williams contributed 12 goals and 10 assists in La Liga.

A report details Williams’ impressive performance throughout the season.

His new contract is reported to include a release clause upwards of €95-100 million, making him much harder to sign for interested clubs.

Their next match is a key clash against Sevilla, who will aim to turn the tide after a disappointing campaign in last season’s La Liga.

WHAT’S NEXT FOR BAYERN AND NICO WILLIAMS

Bayern Munich, who won the Bundesliga, clear behind second place Bayer Leverkusen, are now reviewing alternative targets for their attack after losing Leroy Sane to Galatasaray and Thomas Muller to retirement.

The club has not ruled out adding a winger, but will likely pursue other options given Williams’s new contract and fee. Bayern begin their new campaign with the German Supercup against Stuttgart, looking to close the gap at the top. Athletic Bilbao, meanwhile, aim to hold on to Williams as they push for a Champions League spot in the remaining fixtures of the season.

A previous report notes that Athletic Club finished fourth in La Liga, securing Champions League qualification.