The transfer market has been very quiet until now for many clubs. The reason has been Euro 2024 and Copa America tournaments. The tournaments slowed down the transfer activity as top players were participating in it. On the other hand, both tournaments helped the clubs to monitor their targets. Some players impressed very much throughout the tournaments and caught eyes of many big clubs. Arsenal and Barcelona have scouted a player who was on fire in Euro 2024. The both clubs have joined the race to sign him.
The player is none other than Nico Williams. Williams played an important role in making Spain European champions. He was one of the most consistent players throughout the tournament. Williams has been heavily linked with FC Barcelona. In addition, the Premier League giants have also joined the race. Both clubs are impressed with Nico’s performances in Euro 2024. However, Athletic Bilbao are sure that Williams will stay with them.
Nico Williams in Euro 2024
Spain became the European champions for the fourth time in history. It was the first time any country won all seven matches in Euros. Luis de la Fuente created history with the help of his amazing squad. One of the key part in Spain’s success was their work on flanks. Both flanks were consistent throughout the tournament and caused opponents problems. On the right side it was Lamine Yamal and Dani Carvajal while on left it was Nico Williams and Marc Cucurella.
Nico Williams played 6 matches and was able score twice. In addition, he also assisted one goal. His first goal and only assist came in match against Georgia. Spain thrashed Georgia by 4-1 in the round of 16. Nico’s second goal is definately the most important goal in his career. He scored the opening goal against England in Euro 2024 final. The goal was assisted by Lamine Yamal who became the youngest player to win Euros.
Arsenal join race with Barcelona to sign Williams
FC Barcelona very much want to sign Nico Williams. They want to pair him with Lamine Yamal on opposite side of wing. Reports claim that Barcelona are sure that they will complete the signing of Williams. However they will face heavy competition from Arsenal.
Arsenal’s spanish boss Mikel Arteta is impressed with his fellow country man. The Gunners already have Martinelli on the left wing. However, Martinelli has not been to his best in 2023/24 season. Williams is not the only Spanish player wanted by both Barcelona and Arsenal. Mikel Merino who is very close to join Gunners is also being chased by Barca.
As per now, Barcelona have higher chance to sign Nico Williams than Gunners. Williams has £49 million release clause in his current contract. In addition, he still has three more years left at Athletic Bilbao. Barcelona may find it hard to trigger his release clause due to their current financial situation. However, according to Mirror Barca president Joan Laporta has already told the fans that they can afford Williams. He said that he is working on plans with Hansi Flick. Laporta added that Deco who is sporting director will close the deals they are currently working on.
Athletic Bilbao confident that Williams will stay with the club
Nico Williams has been with Athletic Bilbao since his young days. The Arsenal and Barcelona target has played 122 matches for Bilbao. In those, Williams has scored 20 goals along with giving 26 assists. He has three years left on his current contract with £49 million release clause.
Athletic Bilbao manager Ernesto Valverde thinks that Williams will stay with them. Valverde said Williams is happy with Bilbao and vice versa. Nico Williams is not bothered at all by the rumours. The 22 year old is enjoying his well earned vacation as an European Champion.
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