Athletic Club Bilbao are resolute in their efforts to keep their star winger, Nico Williams, amidst strong interest from top European clubs. The 22-year-old Spanish international, who shone brightly for Spain during their Euro 2024 triumph, has attracted attention from Premier League giants Arsenal and Chelsea, as well as Spanish powerhouses Barcelona and Real Madrid. However, Athletic Club are confident that Williams will remain at San Mames for at least another season, bolstered by their qualification for the UEFA Champions League.
A Rising Star in Bilbao
Nico Williams has emerged as one of La Liga‘s most exciting talents, contributing 42 direct goal involvements over the past two seasons. His pace, flair, and versatility on the wing have made him a cornerstone of Athletic Club’s attack. Despite a somewhat underwhelming 2024-25 campaign, his potential remains undeniable, with a €58 million release clause in his contract, which runs until 2027, reflecting his value to the club.
Club president Jon Uriarte has publicly expressed optimism about Williams’ future, stating, “The project becomes easier if we keep our players – and I believe Nico and the rest of the squad have a very exciting year ahead.” This confidence is echoed by head coach Ernesto Valverde, who recently remarked, “I think he will be there, we suppose so. There are always rumours with many players, with Nico too.”
Contract Talks and Financial Hurdles
Athletic Club have taken proactive steps to secure Williams’ long-term future, initiating talks for a contract extension. These discussions aim not only to extend his stay but also to increase his release clause, making it more challenging for suitors to pry him away. However, a significant obstacle lies in Williams’ reported wage demands, which exceed £300,000 per week, a figure that could deter potential buyers like Arsenal and Chelsea, who view the total cost, including agent fees, as prohibitive.
Williams himself has expressed contentment at Athletic Club, emphasizing the club’s role in his development. “I am very happy at Athletic, it is the club that has given me everything, the one that has bet on me one hundred percent,” he told Spanish radio station El Partidazo. His decision to cut his vacation short last summer to return to Bilbao was seen as a strong signal of his commitment to the club.
Interest from Top Clubs
Despite Athletic’s optimism, interest in Williams remains intense. Arsenal, led by manager Mikel Arteta, have long admired the winger, viewing him as a potential addition to their attacking options. However, recent reports suggest that Williams is weighing his options carefully, with sources indicating he wants to assess all suitors before deciding whether to commit to Bilbao or seek a new challenge. Chelsea, too, are in the race, though their pursuit is complicated by the high financial demands.
Barcelona, who pushed hard for Williams in 2024, have shifted their focus to Liverpool’s Luis Diaz, cooling their interest due to financial constraints and Williams’ rejection of a previous offer. Meanwhile, speculation linking Williams to Real Madrid has been downplayed, with sources from the club denying any serious intent, citing their already stacked attacking lineup with players like Kylian Mbappé and Vinícius Júnior.
Champions League Ambitions
Athletic Club’s qualification for the 2025-26 UEFA Champions League is a significant factor in their bid to retain Williams. The opportunity to compete at Europe’s top table could sway the young star to stay, as he has expressed a desire to play in the prestigious competition with his boyhood club. This ambition aligns with Athletic’s broader project, which Uriarte believes will be bolstered by keeping their key players.
Looking Ahead
As the summer transfer window approaches, Nico Williams’ future remains a focal point of speculation. Athletic Club’s confidence, backed by their strategic contract negotiations and the allure of Champions League football, positions them favorably to retain their star winger. However, the high wage demands and interest from Europe’s elite clubs mean that the saga is far from over. For now, Williams appears content in Bilbao, but the coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether he commits to Athletic Club or embarks on a new chapter elsewhere. Check Also: Uzbekistan Makes History with First-Ever World Cup Qualification After Draw with UAE
