Nico Williams: Barcelona to launch offensive next week; rival team confident, Premier League duo fall behind

Spain and Athletic Club winger Nico Williams has been the subject of incessant speculation this summer, with Barcelona making him their top target this summer. However an array of top European clubs, including Bayern Munich, Paris Saint-Germain, Chelsea, Arsenal and Liverpool have all been linked to the 21-year-old, who has a release clause of €58m.

The Premier League trio in particular have been a topic of conversation, but having confirmed their interest in Williams last month, interestingly Fabrizio Romano only mentioned Chelsea as still being in the frame for Williams’ signature now. He did caveat that by saying they are not looking to meet his release clause, and Athletic Club are unlikely to negotiate.

On the other hand, Romano confirmed that with Euro 2024 over next week, Barcelona would launch an offensive for Williams – new manager Hansi Flick has given the green light, and is pushing for him as a priority signing. That much is confirmed by MD.

On Thursday, Athletic President Jon Uriarte criticised both the Spanish Federation for not ‘protecting’ Williams from speculation more, as well as Barcelona President Joan Laporta’s brash admission of interest in Williams. They are furious with Barcelona, as per Diario AS, but remain confident that they can hold onto Williams next season.

It was reported earlier this week that Barcelona had reached an agreement in principle on terms with Williams’ agent Felix Tainta. For his part, Williams has maintained that he will not listen to any discussion on his future until after the Euros – at which point he will be at least free of any media duties.