Barcelona president Joan Laporta has insisted they are prepared to pay Nico Williams’ release clause after Athletic Bilbao met with LaLiga this week amid the transfer saga surrounding their winger.
Williams is reported to have a €58million release clause and is said to want to leave Athletic to join LaLiga champions Barca.
However, Athletic met with LaLiga this week to discuss Barca’s ability to sign and register new players while complying with the financial restrictions under which they continue to operate.
Barca have previously had issues being able to register players while staying within the parameters of LaLiga’s financial fair play rules, with Dani Olmo the most significant example.
But, having already signed goalkeeper Joan Garcia from Espanyol, Laporta told reporters they are ready to do what is necessary to secure the signature of Spain winger Williams.
“I am not talking about names, but Barca are prepared, if an opportunity arises in the transfer market including a release clause, to take the appropriate action,” Laporta said.
“We are complying with all the requirements demanded by LaLiga and the fair play rules in order to take advantage of market opportunities.”
Laporta refused to be drawn into a war of words with Athletic, after they released a statement on Thursday confirming their meeting with LaLiga.
“Everyone does what they think is best,” Laporta said.
“We are doing what Barca must do when it comes to taking advantage of opportunities in the transfer market and following what our director of football and our coach tell us.
“I have nothing more to say about Athletic, let them do what they have to do. I respect what they do, as I hope they respect what we do.
“What Barca does concerns Barca. LaLiga is aware that club accounts must remain confidential. As we have nothing to hide, let them check our accounts, no problem, but also then ensure everyone is treated by the same standards.”
