Tug of war expected for Bilbao’s Nico Williams

Tug of war expected for Bilbao’s Nico Williams

Athletic Bilbao have a history of producing fine young talent. The latest export from their cantera is set to cause a stir in the summer transfer window.

The tricky winger has had a season to remember guiding Bilbao to the Copa del Rey for the first time in four years registering a further seven goals and fifteen assists this campaign.

But his time at the San Mames could be coming to a close amid a whirlpool of interest in the youngster.

Latest reports claim that Barcelona might have edged in front in the race for the 21 year old’s signature.

El Barça camina firme por Nico Williams

📌Tras el pivote, la primera inversión si hay dinero será el extremo del Athletic

✍️@tjuanmartihttps://t.co/vZwEPbEQCs

— Diario SPORT (@sport) May 10, 2024

The Blaugrana will have to fend off Premier League outfits Arsenal, Chelsea and Aston Villa.

Chelsea are long-standing admires of Nico Williams and made enquiries for his services last summer.

🔵🇪🇸 Chelsea keep monitoring Nico Williams as he was already on the list last summer before signing top target Cole Palmer, as revealed in August.

Chelsea are informed on €50m clause and still following Nico.

There are more clubs interested also in PL, race still open. pic.twitter.com/uR8QUtKAbj

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) March 7, 2024

The Spainard signed a contract extension meaning that his current deal does not expire until summer of 2027.

A €50 million pound release clause remains active in his new deal.

Bilbao have already scouted a replacement for the Spanish International. Fellow Spaniard Alvaro Djalo signed for the Basque outfit in March and will link up with his new teammates in July.

🔴⚪️ Athletic Club have sealed Álvaro Djalo deal, done and here we go! Documents signed with SC Braga for transfer in July.

Understand it will become official next week.

Braga are set to receive €15m plus €5m easy add-ons. pic.twitter.com/Te7lJIZytu

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) March 3, 2024

Djalo has been crucial in Braga’s European push this season scoring sixteen goals and becoming Athletic Club’s third most expensive acquisition of all time.