However, 12 months have passed, and Nico now wants to make the move happen. He is willing to act as a mediator between the two clubs to help negotiate a suitable transfer fee.
Nico has a contract with Athletic that runs until 2027 and includes a buyout clause of €60m. Barcelona is hesitant to meet this price, and a deal has yet to be reached.
By acting as an intermediary, Nico hopes to find a mutually acceptable price for both clubs, paving the way for his transfer to Barcelona.