Nico Williams shares first thoughts after joining Athletic Club pre-season camp amid Barcelona transfer saga
Nico Williams has shared a message for Athletic Club fans amid links to Barcelona this summer. The Spain international has been highly sought after in the current transfer window following his brilliant performances for his country at Euro 2024.
The 22-year-old winger scored two goals and bagged an assist in the European Championships, as he helped La Roja clinch the title. This led to increased interest in the player, with Chelsea and Arsenal also considered potential destinations (via Metro).
With three years left on his deal at Athletic Club, the attacker was always going to be an expensive purchase. Seemingly hinting at the fact that he could remain with his current employers, Williams said while joining his team for pre-season preparations (via Fabrizio Romano):
"I'm back! I'm really looking forward to this season.Vamos, Athletic!"
Teams chasing Williams this summer has also resulted from his performances at the club level last season. He made 37 appearances across competitions in the 2023/24 campaign, bagging eight goals and 19 assists.
It may be difficult to snub moves to clubs like Barcelona and Arsenal, who are going to be competing in the UEFA Champions League this year. Moreover, both sides are fairly close to the top in their respective domestic competitions.
The Blaugrana finished second in La Liga last season, only behind arch-rivals Real Madrid. Meanwhile, the Gunners were only two points short of champions Manchester City in the race for the Premier League title.
Barcelona star hoping for the arrival of Nico Williams this summer
Barcelona defender Jules Kounde has revealed that he would love to play alongside Nico Williams at Camp Nou. Most recently, the pair faced each other when Spain beat France in the semi-final of Euro 2024.
Kounde often plays at right-back and has come up against Williams in one-on-one situations when the winger operates on the left flank. He said (via Football Espana):
"He is a great player and of course I would like to have him as a teammate. Let's see what the cub does, but if it can be done, of course we would be delighted."
Barcelona's links to Williams stems from the fact that the club are without a sure-shot starter down the left wing. The likes of Ferran Torres and Raphinha, among others, will be competing for minutes in that position.