Nico Williams of Athletic Club appears set to spark a transfer war in the summer of 2024 as interest in the young winger continues to grow by the minute.
The 21-year-old’s current contract with the Basque club expires in 2024 at which point he could be available for free, piquing the interest of La Liga champions Barcelona.
The Catalans are set to continue with their strategy of signing free agents next summer as well and see young Nico Williams as a viable target, with contacts already made with his agent.
Liverpool, Aston Villa in the picture
However, it appears that Barcelona are not the only club vying to sign Williams as Premier League duo Liverpool and Aston Villa are also interested in him.
This claim comes from AS, who report that the two Premier League outfits are keeping a close eye on the 21-year-old as they weigh up a Bosman move for him next year.
Williams is carving out quite a reputation for himself with his breakthrough performances for Athletic Club.
The 21-year-old is a speedy winger with good dribbling skills and an ever-improving end product, all of which were visible during Spain’s win over Georgia and Cyprus during the international break earlier this month.
Indeed, having chalked up four assists in four La Liga games for his club, Williams scored a goal and set up three more in three matches for La Roja.
Williams’ dangerous wing play and his budding camaraderie with some of the Barcelona players such as Lamine Yamal and Alejandro Balde, are some of the reasons why the Catalans wish to sign him.
Athletic trying to renew contract
But, things will not be easy for Barcelona as Liverpool and Aston Villa are also pursuing Williams’ signing while Athletic Club are working hard to extend his contract.
The Basque outfit do not wish to lose one of their most prized assets, and as such, are negotiating a new deal with the 21-year-old.
Athletic Club are taking things one step at a time to tie up his contract, with the club planning on offering an extension that is not too long and not raising his €50 million release clause by a big amount.
If he renews, Barcelona might find it difficult to fund a move for Williams given their current financial situation.
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