Two Premier League clubs place Nico Williams on their transfer wishlists after his stunning performance in Spain win vs Italy
Two Premier League giants are interested in the Spain star.
Alex Brotherton
Nico Williams showed exactly why two Premier League clubs are weighing up moves for him with a stunning performance at Euro 2024.
Williams put in a man of the match display in Spain's 1-0 victory against Italy on Thursday evening, a result that secured them top spot in Group B.
The 21-year-old winger produced the cross that Riccardo Calafiori turned into his own net for the only goal of the game, and he spent the rest of the match making the life of Italy right-back Giovanni Di Lorenzo a living hell.
Williams enjoyed a breakout season with Athletic Club in La Liga, where he plays alongside his older brother Inaki.
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His dynamic attacking player and willingness to run at defenders - as well as his return of eight goals and 19 assists in 37 matches in 2023-24 - has put Williams on the radar of some European giants.
Not only does the winger have potential to become world class, but the €55 million (£43m) release clause in his Athletic Club contract would facilitate a fairly uncomplicated transfer.
According to The Athletic, Arsenal and Chelsea are both interested in Williams and could pursue him off the back of his first Euros with Spain.
Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta reportedly sees the youngster as a good fit for his team should he decide to sign a wide player.
Meanwhile, Chelsea bosses have been encouraged by how well Williams has combined with their left-back Marc Cucurella while playing for the national team.
There have also been reports that Liverpool could make a move if Arne Slot decides he needs a new wide player.
Barcelona have been heavily linked with Williams, partly because he has a close friendship with 16-year-old wonderkid and Spain teammate Lamine Yamal.
However, Barcelona's financial situation - they must fill a €130m hole in their accounts before the end of the month - will make it difficult for them to meet Williams' release clause this summer.
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