According to journalist Simon Phillips, Chelsea believe that they can get their hands on Athletic Bilbao star Nico Williams this summer. This comes after the player’s move to Barcelona has been put on halt and there are no positive sentiments around it.
Nico Williams was phenomenal last season
Nico Williams is one of the best attackers in the La Liga at present. He came through the ranks of Athletic Bilbao Academy and made a name for himself. His recent heroics at the Euro Cup 2024 have raised his stakes among the interested buyers.
Williams netted eight goals and provided 19 assists in 37 games last season. He averaged 1.8 shots, 1.6 key passes, and 2.7 dribbles per game (stats via whoscored). Apart from this, he was also instrumental in Spain’s Euro Cup-winning side.
The Spanish attacker features on the left wing but can also play on the other wing if needed. With a quick pace and great dribbling skills, he becomes a threat to the opponents. His creativity and finishing abilities up front are too good.
Barcelona aren’t sure about Nico Williams
Chelsea are in the market in search of a new winger as the likes of Raheem Sterling, Mykhailo Mudryk and Noni Madueke were inconsistent last season. Hence, the club want to strengthen the wide areas and transform their side ahead of next season.
The Blues were running behind Crystal Palace winger Michael Olise but the player eventually decided to join Bayern Munich. This means that the English giants will have to look for other options in the transfer market.
While Nico Williams was favourite to join Barcelona this summer, things have changed in the past few days. The player hasn’t responded to their interest and the deal has come to a halt. Sensing an opportunity, Chelsea want to hijack the deal.
If the Blues can convince Williams, they can sign him simply by triggering his release clause. It will be a great addition to their unit if happens.
