Robin Bairner
Nico Williams, Athletic Club, Spain, 2024/25
© IMAGO
Nico Williams has performed a major U-turn, with the Athletic Club winger ready to turn down the opportunity to sign for Barcelona and instead move to the Premier League.
Barca were eager to add Nico to their ranks last summer in a deal worth €58 million, yet the Euro 2024 turned down the possibility of a future at Camp Nou. There was also interest from Arsenal and Chelsea, yet at the time it was reported that he wanted to remain in Spain.
El Nacional now reports that the 22-year-old has had a change of heart and is ready to move to England.
Arsenal and Liverpool are both said to have been hot on his trail, with the two sides of the opinion that his dynamism, speed and technical qualities will allow him to shine in the Premier League. With a release clause of €58m, he also looks a relative bargain.
While it is unclear exactly what has triggered Nico’s decision to leave his homeland, a switch to the Premier League is one that suits him.
“Nico Williams would be delighted to make the leap to one of the most competitive leagues in the world. The Spain international is clear that he needs a new challenge to continue growing and the Premier League offers him an ideal stage to demonstrate his quality,” El Nacional reports.
“In addition, both Liverpool and Arsenal guarantee him the opportunity to play in European competitions, a key factor in his decision.”
Nico Williams has long been linked with Arsenal
© IMAGO - Nico Williams has long been linked with Arsenal
Arsenal or Liverpool: Which club suits Nico Williams?
Arsenal would be the better destination for Nico Williams when he chooses to leave Athletic, according to data analytics firm SciSports’ Career Advice tool.
This shows that while Nico could potentially reach a slightly higher season at Anfield, the playing style and formation of Mikel Arteta’s side are more suited to him.
Arsenal’s are given a Club Fit score of 70, which is superior to that of Liverpool’s 64. This is calculated using a range of different considerations, including potential development, game time, playing style and formation.
If Nico Williams really does have his heart set on this move, he would do well to consider a move to the Gunners, although there is a surprise Premier League club even better suited to him.