Nico Williams and the four top clubs competing for the La Liga star
So far, we have experienced some jaw-dropping transfer deals this summer window, and no name is hotter than Nico Williams. The Spanish winger has become a viral sensation following his impressive Euro 2024 performance in Germany. The Athletic Bilbao forward is considering his suitors, but he appears to favor one team in particular... Another team in La Liga.
According to the Spanish publication Sport, FC Barcelona has been tempting the Basque national to join the team alongside his good friend Lamine Yamal. Nevertheless, Barça is not the only club lining up for Nico.
According to The Athletic, Paris Saint Germain (PSG) has activated a plan to try and bring Nico Williams over to Paris, as a possible replacement for Mbappe. "There is a lot of interest [from PSG] and they have taken the first steps in the negotiations," reports Sport.
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However, FC Barcelona holds a significant advantage in the negotiations, as Williams prefers to stay in La Liga. He is familiar with Spanish football and would rather remain in Spain than move to England or France. Additionally, Williams is considering the prospect of joining a squad featuring talents like Lamine Yamal, Gavi, Pedri, and potentially Dani Olmo.
"Nico Williams, (22 years old) has given priority to the 'football' side of things and trusts Barcelona will have the money to pay for the release clause," according to the Spanish publication Sport.
Another strong candidate is Chelsea FC, who have publicly expressed their interest in the Spanish forward. The Blues are steadily building a competitive squad with young talents. The departure of Pochettino gives the team a fresh start for the upcoming season. While the London giant has its sights set on Nico Williams, they are aware that other top clubs are also inquiring about him.
After missing out on three major European competitions in the past 5 years, Chelsea will play in the UEFA European Conference League, and owner Todd Boehly is looking for ways to improve the squad for the upcoming season.
According to Onefootball, Chelsea and Aston Villa are eyeing Athletic Bilbao winger Nico Williams. Williams has enjoyed a fruitful season at the Basque team, but might be looking for a bigger challenge.
Furthermore, despite signing a new contract in December, the Spanish winger has a set release clause set at £43m (€50m/$54m), an affordable bid for many teams in the Premier League.
The Telegraph reports that although the fee would be relatively low, the Spanish international will compensate with high wages and is believed to be working on a £100,000 (€117k/$127k) contract a week.
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If Chelsea can seal the deal, Williams will become one of the highest-paid players at Stamford Bridge next season. But, where would he play?
Raheem Sterling and Mykhailo Mudryk have the wings covered, and the club has no intentions of selling any of the two. According to OneFootball, Sterling was approached by Saudi Arabian teams, and it also seems Bayern Munich is very interested in Mudryk's future.
Alongside the arrival of Nico Williams is also the possible signing of Victor Osimhen. The 'Blues' are looking for a striker ahead of the next season, and they are imagining a Williams - Osimhen connection up front.
Nico Williams scored eight goals and provided 19 assists in 37 games this 2023/2024 season, according to Transfermarkt. He and his brother Iñaki Williams lead Athletic Bilbao's attack and are the highest scorers on the team.
Beyond Nico's excellent athletic abilities, he has exploded as a viral sensation on social media, too. Nike is his main sponsor and would like to convert him into the brand's image leader in Europe, standing next to Mbappe, Vinicius, and Halland. "The financial impact Nico would have on the brand if he would leave Athletic for Barcelona or PSG would be huge," according to Marca.
While negotiations are still ongoing, Chelsea is weighing its options across all fronts. Nico Williams would be a promising signing that fits into the club culture, alongside a rejuvenated hope for European success. Let us know what you think in the comments.
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