Barcelona Faces July Deadline to Sign Nico Williams amid Ter Stegen Contract Standoff

Barcelona is navigating significant transfer and contract developments ahead of the 2025-26 season, focusing on key players amid financial fair play constraints. Ronald Araujo, initially close to a January departure, remains at the club after signing a contract extension until 2031 with a release clause that drops to €70 million during a ten-day window in early July, presenting a potential bargain for interested clubs. Meanwhile, Barcelona is poised to finalize the signing of winger Nico Williams by paying his €62 million release clause, targeting a July 6 deadline to align with accounting and La Liga financial regulations, with the player seeking guarantees on registration amid past club challenges. The club is confident in managing this transfer internally without liquidity issues, having secured a six-year contract agreement with Williams, who is eager to join Barça. Additionally, veteran goalkeeper Marc-André ter Stegen has issued an ultimatum to Barcelona, demanding full payment of his contract if asked to leave, reflecting tensions as the club plans to transition to new goalkeeping options. These moves highlight Barcelona's balancing act between strengthening the squad and adhering to financial regulations as they prepare for the upcoming season under coach Hansi Flick.