Athletic Bilbao coach Ernesto Valverde explains why he’s ‘calm’ about Nico Williams transfer rumors amid Barcelona interest
Athletic Bilbao coach Ernesto Valverde has clarified that he's "calm" about Nico Williams' future amid interest from La Liga rivals Barcelona. It is believed that Premier League clubs Arsenal and Chelsea are also interested in signing the winger.
Williams is a hot prospect in the current transfer window after starring for Spain in their Euro 2024 success. During the competition, the 22-year-old scored two goals, one of which was in the final against England and bagged an assist in six appearances.
An already highly rated attacker, Williams' stock has only risen following his European Championship performances. Despite several clubs credited with interest in him, Valverde says he's calm about the situation.
The manager said (via @BarcaTimes):
"Nico? I am calm, we depend on him. He is happy with us and we're happy with him also."
Williams was also impressive last season for his current employers, bagging eight goals and 19 assists across competitions in 37 matches. This has resulted in serious interest from Barcelona.
After questions were raised over the Blaugrana's financial ability to meet Williams' price tag, SPORT clarified that the Catalans are capable of the deal (via Football Espana). It is believed that the Spanish giants would have to meet the player's €58m release clause to get this move done.
A move to Camp Nou is certainly tempting, with nobody having locked down the left-wing position. Williams will have to compete with the likes of Ferran Torres and Raphinha for minutes down that flank.
Fabrizio Romano says Barcelona are ahead of Chelsea in the race to sign Nico Williams
Fabrizio Romano recently provided an update about Nico Williams' situation, with Barcelona and Chelsea in hot pursuit of the winger. The transfer expert claims that it would be the Blues' dream to have the Spaniard on the wings but Barcelona have the "match point."
Mykhailo Mudryk hasn't convinced many, and there is certainly an opportunity for a wide player to come and take over the left-wing position at the west London club. Speaking during his PlayBack Show, Romano said (via Chelsea News):
"Chelsea's dream on the wing is Nico Williams but they know Barcelona are ahead and have a 'match point.'"
A move to Stamford Bridge isn't particularly attractive, with the west Londoners finishing sixth in the Premier League last season and not offering Champions League football. The club are going through a rebuild and appointed a new manager, Enzo Maresca, following Mauricio Pochettino's departure in the summer.