Much like the World Cups, Euros are a great time for domestic football fans to learn more about players who play across Europe and the rest of the world.
There is one player in particular that has caught the eye, but if you had been watching La Liga this season, you’d already know everything about him.
Athletic Club’s Nico Williams has had a superb tournament for Spain thus far, which means the transfer rumour mill is rife with gossip about his next whereabouts.
Several Premier League clubs have shown keen interest in the Bilbao-based winger, whose £46.5million release clause looks attractive after he helped fire Athletic Club to their Copa del Rey victory and bagged eight goals and 19 assists last season.
Arsenal and Chelsea have reportedly been the most keen in the Premier League for Williams’ services, but it looks like they’re set to miss out on the winger.
What’s Been Said?
According to FC Barcelona superstar (Mundo Deportivo via The Mirror), Pedri, and Chelsea full back, Marc Cucurella, both Spaniards have been ‘whispering in the ear’ of the talented youngster, aiming to attract him to their clubs.
Pedri added:
“Nico Williams would be a spectacular signing for us at Barcelona, it’d be incredible,”
“He’s a player who is already showing what he’s capable of. I hope he can join us!”
We don’t talk about it much. It’s a decision that he and Barca have to make. There are a lot of things that have to happen.”
Whilst Cucurella stated:
“I’ve been telling Nico Williams to come to Chelsea, but everything depends on him,”
“He’s young and has a lot of experience. I think he will be a great player.”
Can Barcelona Make The Deal Work?
The Catalan giants are reportedly ready to raise some cash too to make the deal happen too, creating further frustration to their rivals for Williams’ signature.
According to Sport.es, Barcelona lead the race and Williams favours a move to Catalonia, so in order to ensure they have the cash they’re prepared to sell two of their current stars.
Contract negotiations are stalling with Uruguayan centre back, Ronald Araujo, and it’s reported that Barcelona will place a £70 million price tag on him if the talks cannot be resolved, whilst Brazilian winger, Raphinha, is attracting interest from both the Premier League and Saudi Arabia.
If Nico Williams is to leave Athletic Club this summer, he needs to choose his next club very wisely if he’s to hit the heights the footballing now expects of him.