Nico Williams, a winger for Athletic Club, has attracted a lot of attention both inside and outside of Spain due to his recent surge in play. FC Barcelona has shown particular interest in the winger.
The 21-year-old speedster is indeed attracting considerable interest from the Blaugrana, especially as his Athletic contract is set to expire at the end of the current campaign.
Though nothing official has been announced as of yet, Barcelona is still keeping an eye on Nico Williams’ position. Recent sources had indicated that Williams was close to signing a new contract with the Basque club.
Real Madrid, however, has reportedly expressed interest in Nico and the player would prefer a transfer to the Santiago Bernabeu. This has brought Real Madrid into the picture.
Real Madrid made Nico an offer, but the club rejected the transfer.
Meanwhile, Jose Felix Diaz of MARCA has reported (via Madrid Xtra) that Real Madrid has received an offer for Nico Williams.
Barcelona might benefit from this, although the Spanish capital club is not currently considering a move for the Spanish international.
Williams, 21, has been playing well this season, recording 10 La Liga appearances with one goal and seven assists.
The €40 million-rated winger has also established himself as a mainstay for the Spanish national team after making an impact in the most recent round of Euro 2024 qualifying.
Barcelona will only sign him for free
With Real Madrid seemingly uninterested in signing Nico Williams, it does leave the path clear for Barcelona, although some clubs from the Premier League are also interested in him.
However, it must be noted that given Barça’s financial situation, they will only consider signing the 21-year-old Spaniard if he is available for free.
If he were to sign a new contract at Athletic Club, even with a relatively affordable release clause worth around €50 million, a move for him would no longer be on the table for the Catalan heavyweights.