Football Reporter
Williams could well be on the move this summerWilliams could well be on the move this summer
Williams could well be on the move this summer | Getty Images
Chelsea have been linked with one of the best young wingers in world football.
Chelsea are likely to be on the lookout for a new winger this summer as Enzo Maresca looks to improve the quality along his frontline, also likely to go after a striker. A number of players have already been linked, and Athletic Club superstar Nico Williams is one of the latest.
Williams has been linked with a whole host of clubs ahead of the summer, likely to be on the move, and Chelsea are said to be one of the contenders. Here we round up what you need to know about what could be the transfer saga of the summer.
What is Nico Williams’ current situation with Athletic Club?
Williams has been with Athletic Club since his youth days, and his connection with the club compared with the unique situation that allows him to play with brother Iñaki, have allowed Athletic to keep hold of their star man for another season.
Barcelona looked likely to sign Williams last summer, but their La Liga spending cap did not allow them to pull off a deal. Barca ended up signing Dani Olmo, but they could only register him initially until January, showing the extent of their issues, albeit they did eventually figure out a way to keep him on a long-term deal.
Williams gave his word to Athletic last summer that he would stay for another season, even after his Euro 2024 heroics, but it looks as though he will depart this summer. He has a release clause in his contract worth a reported £50.5million, and he may end up with his choice of clubs this summer.
Chelsea’s ‘interest’ in Williams
According to The Boot Room and Graeme Bailey, Chelsea are interested in a deal for Williams as they look to strengthen out wide. The Blues will be looking for a new winger and a striker this summer, and it’s also being reported that Noni Madueke will move on.
A number of Premier League clubs are said to be interested in Williams, including Arsenal and Liverpool, while Barcelona will be obvious contenders. The road to landing Williams will be a tricky one, even with the release clause present, but Chelsea may be able to carve out a spot in their squad and offer the Spaniard a starting spot next season.
Williams is likely to command a big wage given his release clause is affordable for the calibre player he is. The winger is still only 22 years of age, and he has already proven he can deliver on the biggest stage with Spain.
What Williams has said
Williams won’t consider his future until after this season having vowed to give Athletic Club his all this season. “I’m not thinking about my future now. I’m so happy to be at Athletic, fans are happy too,” Williams told El Mundo previously.
“Bilbao is my home, I’m really happy and I want to enjoy it here. I want to bring Athletic at the best level. The dream is that Europa League final at San Mamés.”
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