“The dream is that Europa League final” - Nico Williams opens up on his future amid interest from Barcelona and Arsenal
Athletic Bilbao winger Nico Williams opened up about his future amid transfer interest from Barcelona and Arsenal. Premier League giants Liverpool and Chelsea are reportedly tracking the 22-year-old for a potential signing next summer.
Nico Williams turned heads with some great performances this year. The Spaniard scored twice in six matches, including the opening goal of the Euro 2024 final against England. He also provided an assist in the European Championship.
He has now garnered interest from Arsenal and Barcelona among other top clubs. When asked about his future, Williams mentioned that he is happy at his boyhood club and is only focused on winning the UEFA Europa League with Athletic Bilbao. The final is slated for May 21, 2025, at Estadio de San Mamés in Bilbao. He told El Mundo (via Metro):
"I’m not thinking about my future now. I’m so happy to be at Athletic, fans are happy too. Bilbao is my home, I’m really happy and I want to enjoy it here. I want to bring Athletic at the best level. The dream is that Europa League final at San Mames."
Following his one-season stint at Basconia, Nico Williams was promoted to Athletic Bilbao's B team in 2021. He was given the first-team contract in January 2022 and his current contract is valid until the summer of 2027.
Williams has recorded one goal and one assist in nine appearances for Athletic Bilbao this season. Overall, he has netted 21 goals and 27 assists in 131 matches for the club.
Arsenal and Barcelona reportedly set for transfer battle for Jonathan David
Arsenal and Barcelona are in the running to sign Lille forward Jonathan David, as per a report by Spanish outlet Mundo Deportivo (via Football365). The 24-year-old has also reportedly attracted interest from Newcastle United, Tottenham Hotspur and AC Milan.
David has been linked with a move away from the Ligue 1 club for a while now. With his contract with Lille next summer, clubs are expected to be pushing to sign the Canada international.
Arsenal are reportedly looking to strengthen their squad and David can be a great potential addition to their attack. Barcelona, on the other hand, are considering the Gent graduate as a long-term replacement for Robert Lewandowski, who is now 36. David's contract expiring next summer also helps Barcelona, who have targeted free agents lately due to their financial constraints.
Jonathan David arrived at Lille from KAA Gent on a five-year contract in 2020. He has netted eight goals and provided two assists in 13 appearances this season. Overall, he has recorded 92 goals and 20 assists in 196 matches for the Ligue 1 club.