Javier Tebas says he’s ‘very happy’ Barcelona-target Nico Williams stayed at Athletic

La Liga president Javier Tebas has been talking about the summer’s transfer activity and Barcelona’s failed attempt to land Nico Williams from Athletic Club.

Tebas said earlier this season he thought that Barca could find a way to afford the Spain star and now says he’s happy that Williams stayed in Bilbao.

“Barcelona wanted him and it wasn’t possible. I’m very happy that he’s still at Athletic. I like that they stay at clubs that aren’t one of the big two. It gives them that sense of belonging that some have for their clubs,” he said as reported by Sport.

“I only said that if Barcelona reached the 1:1 rule, they could bring in a player of the value of Nico Williams, nothing more.”

La Liga’s president also spoke about Barcelona’s financial situation and admits there’s still plenty of work to do.

“In terms of the economy, they have reduced the wage bill and made some very important efforts,” he added.

“They are increasingly getting to know how Financial Fair Play works. They still has a long way to go to fix everything, but a club with that level of turnover that reduces expenses is on the right track.”

Barcelona have already been linked with a move for Williams next summer, with Laporta hoping the club will be able to sign normally in the January window.