Recent talks between the parties have increased, and Nico has expressed his desire to join Barca to his Spanish teammates while representing the national team. He is willing to reject offers from other top clubs like Arsenal and Bayern Munich to achieve his goal.
Despite this, the transfer process is complicated. Nico's buyout clause is set at €58 million, plus an additional €6 million in taxes, which totals €64 million. This makes it difficult for Barca to pay the amount in one go.
Athletic Club is not open to negotiating the buyout clause or making installment payments. The tense relationship between the two clubs is also a challenge, partly due to disagreements over the transfer market and the ongoing Negreira case.
Barca has already made significant transfers, spending €25 million on Espanyol goalkeeper Joan Garcia. To comply with financial fair play regulations, they need to make a major sale before they can approve the transfer of Nico.
For now, Nico remains a desirable target, but the transfer is still uncertain.