Spanish starlet Nico Williams is now expected to remain an Athletic Club player for at least one more season. The 22-year-old attacker recently starred for Spain as they triumphed at Euro 2024. In six matches at the tournament, all as a starter, Williams collected two goals and an assist. Due to his stellar display, he was named in the UEFA Team of the Tournament.
The winger’s impressive display at the competition has fueled transfer speculation. Barcelona was thought to be the frontrunner in the race to sign the star. Premier League duo Arsenal and Chelsea, as well as Paris Saint-Germain, however, have also been linked with Williams.
Nevertheless, The Athletic now claims that Williams is likely to remain with his current club for the near future. The attacker wants to play in a European competition with his boyhood team. Williams has been a part of the club since he joined at the age of 11. Athletic qualified for the Europa League ahead of the upcoming 2024/25 season.
Exec claims financial issues have subsided at Barcelona
Williams previously signed a new contract extension with the Spanish side back in December. As a result, his deal with Athletic runs until the summer of 2027. The contract includes a $59 million release clause.
Barcelona has been linked with triggering this release clause for much of the summer. The move, however, has yet to officially materialize. Many assumed that the lack of movement in a potential deal for Williams has to do with Barca’s shaky financial situation. The club has dealt with a series of setbacks in this department and has been careful in the transfer market within the last year.
Nevertheless, Barcelona president Joan Laporta recently declared that the club’s financial situation is “much better than it was” before. The executive went on to claim that they can improve the squad this summer. While this has not occurred just yet, sources at The Athletic claim that team officials are working on…
Source link : https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/barca-turns-to-plan-b-as-nico-williams-set-for-athletic-stay/
Author : Chris Moore
Publish date : 2024-07-31 18:32:43
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