Athletic Bilbao winger Nico Williams is prioritising a move to Barcelona despite being in negotiations with several Premier League clubs.
Williams has emerged as one of La Liga’s most exciting talents since joining Athletic Bilbao as a teenager, helping the Spanish side end a 40-year trophy drought by winning the Copa del Rey in the 2023-24 season.
The 21-year-old’s contract was due to expire this summer but Williams agreed a contract extension in December, ending any fears that the player would leave the Basque side on a free transfer.
However, interest in Williams remains strong, with his agent in talks with Arsenal, Liverpool, Aston Villa and Newcastle.
Arsenal are looking to add depth to their options down the wing this summer, while Newcastle are expected to spend the majority of their summer budget on a right winger.
Liverpool, meanwhile, are considering Williams as a long-term replacement for Mohamed Salah, who turns 32 this month and continues to attract attention from the Saudi Professional League.
Premier League clubs are keen to sign the explosive wide man but HITC reports that Williams wants to remain in Spain, with Barcelona also showing an interest.
Williams scored eight goals and provided 17 assists in all competitions last season and is currently part of Spain’s Euro 2024 squad, with his contract at San Mames Stadium including a £43m release clause.
Barcelona have other players who could leave the Camp Nou, such as Ferran Torres and Rafinha, who have both been linked with a move to West Ham, so they will likely be keen to sell before raising the funds to sign Williams.
Last season, Williams ranked among La Liga’s top players in assists (second), successful tackles (second), crosses (seventh) and forward carries (fourth).
Barcelona winger Lamine Yamal urged the club to sign Williams this week, claiming his Spain team-mate was “the only player” he would take to Catalonia.
“I’ll definitely sign Nico Williams! If I had to choose one player to sign, it would be him,” the 16-year-old told newspaper El Partidazo de Cope.
“I hope to share the dressing room with Nico at Barça, as he will inherit a great talent.”
Read – 5 Premier League players who could be moved before the PSR deadline
Read more – 5 young players to watch at Euro 2024
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