"If it gets done, I'll be delighted" - Barcelona star hopes club can sign Euro 2024 winner Nico Williams this summer
Barcelona star Jules Kounde has lavished praise on Euro 2024 winner Nico Williams. The Frenchman has admitted that he would love to see the Spaniard sign for the Blaugrana.
Williams displayed excellent form for Athletic Bilbao last season, helping them finish fifth in the La Liga. The 22-year-old scored five goals and provided 14 assists in 31 league appearances. Overall, he registered 37 appearances across competitions, contributing eight goals and 19 assists.
The Spaniard continued to impress with his performances at the 2024 European Championships as well for La Roja. He played a key role in Spain's triumph in Germany. Williams started all of his side's fixtures, except their third group-stage game against Albania, scoring two goals and providing an assist. The young winger got on the scoresheet in Spain's 2-1 final win over England in Berlin.
His exploits for club and country last season have led to interest from clubs across Europe, including Arsenal and Barcelona. Williams has been touted with a move to the Nou Camp to link up with Spain teammate Lamine Yamal.
Barcelona defender Jules Kounde is a huge fan of the winger and would be elated if the Blaugrana were to secure his signature this summer. He said in an interview with ESPN:
"Nico is a very good player. He has had a great European Championship and he is very young. We always want to play with good players. Let's see what the club can do and if it can be done. If it gets done, I'll be delighted."
According to reports, Barcelona have identified Bayern Munich forward Bryan Zaragoza as an alternative if they fail to sign Williams.
Nico Williams makes crucial decision on future amid Barcelona links - Reports
According to reports, Nico Williams would prefer to stay in the La Liga this summer. Clubs like Arsenal and Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) have shown interest in the player.
Catalan outlet SPORT reports that the 22-year-old winger does not want to leave Spain. This would rule out a move to Ligue 1 or the Premier League. However, Williams is yet to make a decision over whether to stay at Athletic Bilbao or depart for the Nou Camp.
Barcelona have prioritized Williams as their No.1 transfer target this summer, as per GOAL. The Spanish forward's contract with Athletic Bilbao runs until 2027 and includes a reported €58 million release clause.