Spanish star Nico Williams 'crazy' to join Barcelona amid interest from Arsenal and Chelsea – report
Athletic Club is the star of Spain Nico Williams he is one of the most enjoyable players to watch in the world at the moment, and with a release clause of 58 million euros, it seems like a no brainer for the big clubs to sboop for him. Of course, Arsenal, Liverpool and Chelsea have shown interest, but the player's preference is to stay in Spain.
Both Sport and MD report that Barcelona is the player's preference this summer if he wants to move to this summer. His connection with Pedri and Lamine Yamal for Spain is an attraction for Williams, and the former say that Chelsea have been told that Williams' preference is the Catalan side.
Breaking: At Barça it is understood that the signing of Nico Williams could be done without having to sell Raphinha. @mondu sportiu
— Barcacentre (@barcacentre) July 2, 2024
The latter explain that the desire to bring Williams from Catalonia continues to grow, while his relations with his Spanish teammates guarantee his form at Camp Nou. The 21-year-old still has room to grow as well, something that is less certain than the other main target for the position, Liverpool's Luis Diaz. They also say the deal could be done without selling Raphinha – they are currently unable to sign anyone.
Williams could join any of the aforementioned clubs for free this summer, with his contract expiring in November. However, Williams ordered his agent to renegotiate an agreement with Athletic to stay in the good books with San Mames and his brother Inaki, signing until 2026. He is happy in Bilbao and has preferred not to leave under a cloud, aware of all the club has done for him and his brother.
Certainly Williams seems like a no-brainer for Barcelona if he can make a deal, but that remains shrouded in uncertainty. There are conflicting reports coming out about their competition, with some sources saying Chelsea have given up on Williams because of cost, and others saying they are preparing a big wage offer. However, Barcelona will have to trust that Williams will prioritize them over money this summer if they manage to put the money together to do a deal.
