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Nico Williams to Chelsea transfer latest - Player stance, Cucurella message, Barcelona alternative
Nico Williams' future continues to be subject of speculation as many clubs in Europe are interested in completing a swoop for the Athletic Bilbao winger.
The 21-year-old has admitted he is flattered by all the interest but insisted that his full focus remains on helping Spain in the Euro 2024. He said: "Everything that comes from outside is good, it means I’m doing my job well. Every kid dreams of being noticed by big clubs.
With that said, football.london has rounded-up everything you need to know about the winger.
Nico Williams preferred destination
Both Chelsea and Arsenal have Williams in their sights but are at risk of missing out with the winger said to favour staying in Spain this summer. That's according to Sport and MD, who claim that Barcelona would be his preferred destination if he is to secure a move.
His connection with Spain team-mates Pedri and Lamine Yamal is said to be an attraction for Williams. The report adds that Chelsea have been told that Williams' preference is the Catalan side and he is said to be 'crazy' over a potential move to Barcelona, who finished second in La Liga last season.
READ MORE: Arsenal told major Riccardo Calafiori concern Mikel Arteta won't like to hear amid £40m gamble
What has Williams said?
Speaking to the media about the transfer links, the 21-year-old said: "I’m focused on doing well at the European Championship and whatever comes after that I’ll find out because these days I’m totally disconnected."
What has Athletic Bilbao president said?
Athletic Bilbao president Jon Uriarte offered an update on Williams’ future and is sure that he is not looking for a move. "We have impressive talent in the squad," he said.
"When things are like this, it's normal that there are players who arouse interest, but we're not here to talk about rumours. Nico is happy in Bilbao and at Athletic and we're very happy with Nico. We don't worry about or pay attention to rumours, we're focused on creating an attractive project for all our players, fighting for titles and competing in Europe."
Spain star want Williams Barcelona move
Barca gem Pedri was among those to admit he's trying to lure the 21-year-old over a move to Camp Nou, after scoring one goal and providing an assist in Spain's recent 4-1 victory over Georgia.
"Nico Williams would be a spectacular signing for us at Barcelona, it'd be incredible," he told Mundo Deportivo (via The Mirror ). "He's a player who is already showing what he's capable of. I hope he can join us!"
When asked about the extent of discussions regarding a move for Williams, the Camp Nou talisman added: "We don't talk about it much. It's a decision that he and Barca have to make. There are a lot of things that have to happen."
Lamine Yamal added: "We get along very well, and you can see that on the pitch too, that we are very close, that we are very good friends, and that is the most important thing to have the connection on the pitch. I wish Nico could come to Barca."
Marc Cucurella persuasion
Meanwhile, Marc Cucurella has tried to persuade the winger to move to London. He said: "He is a great player, he is bringing out all his potential, it is a source of pride that he is on our team, that he is our teammate and with players like him everything is easier.
"It would be a great signing, but it all depends on his opinion. I’m pushing him to sign for Chelsea. In the end, it all depends on him. He’s very young, with a lot of experience, and I think he’ll be a great player."
Barcelona stance
Barca are keen to sign Williams but it remains to be seen whether they can afford to pay his reported £49million (€58m) release clause amid reported financial issues. Journalist Marcos Benito claims that the Spanish giants have identified Toluca's Maxi Araujo as an alternative player, should they fail to land Williams.
Sporting director Deco is said to have been 'closely following' the Uruguayan who has a £17m (€20m) release clause.
Premier League teams interested
In addition to Chelsea and Arsenal, Tottenham Hotspur and Liverpool have also been credited with an interest in the winger. Spanish news outlet Nacional (via the Mirror) claims that the Reds are prepared to activate his release clause.
Contract details
Williams is under contract at Bilbao until the summer of 2027 after extending his stay last December amid interest from the Premier League.
