Chelsea join Arsenal in pursuit of €70 million-rated Barcelona winger target

Nico Williams remains very much a subject of interest at FC Barcelona, with the Catalans still keen on signing the Athletic Club winger after missing out on his services last summer.

The Blaugrana remain intent on bringing in a top left-winger to reinforce their attacking unit before next season and the 22-year-old Nico remains one of the top targets.

However, competition for his services seems to be growing with each day. Bayern Munich and more recently Arsenal were said to have entered the race for the Spanish international’s signing.

Now, another big-spending Premier League club have shown an interest in Nico.

Chelsea join race

Indeed, according to The Athletic, Chelsea are also very much in the picture to sign Nico Williams along with Arsenal and Barcelona.

Both the London clubs are long-term admirers of the 22-year-old Spanish winger and would be interested in acquiring his services.

In fact, the report confirms that Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta would be keen on adding Nico to his squad as early as this month, especially following the injury to Bukayo Saka.

However, the finances involved in the operation make things difficult for the Gunners, as the winger has a release clause close to €60 million which would need to be paid in full.

Factoring in his salary, the cost of operation rises further, making a January transfer unlikely.

Nico, for his part, has not shown any desire to leave his boyhood club midway through the season either.

But a summer exit remains very much a possibility and with interest in him growing, Barcelona would need to act swiftly if they are to avoid missing out on the Spaniard for a second year in a row.

*Player valuation in title obtained from transfermarkt.com on the date of publication.