Nico Williams is reportedly keeping all his options open ahead of the 2025 summer transfer window amid his links with Barcelona and Chelsea.
According to a report by Fabrizio Romano on Caught Offside, the 2025 summer transfer window will bring another saga surrounding Nico Williams. Barcelona and Chelsea have been keen on signing the Athletic Club attacker for a long time. Meanwhile, the 22-year-old is keeping his options open, meaning he could extend his stay at San Mames for another season after this.
The rise and rise of Nico Williams
Nico Williams has been one of the best young prospects in the world for a few years. A native of Pamplona, the Spaniard began his youth career at CA Osasuna before joining Athletic Club in July 2013. He has come leaps and bounds in the last decade, and the youngster is now a mainstay in the final third for his club and country.
The 22-year-old was excellent in the 2023/24 season and then played his part as Spain returned to the summit of European football by winning the UEFA Euro 2024 title. While Williams has yet to score or assist a goal thus far in the 2024/25 campaign, he has looked impressive in his four outings.
Meanwhile, Nico Williams’s exploits for his club and country have not gone unnoticed, capturing the attention of several high-profile clubs across Europe. Several European bigwigs, including FC Barcelona and Chelsea, attempted to sign the Spanish international in the summer transfer window before he decided to remain with Athletic Club.
A man in demand
Barcelona’s interest in Nico Williams is understandable. While Raphinha has been exceptional in the early days of the 2024/25 season, Joan Laporta dreams of having a wide attacking pairing of Lamine Yamal and Williams, with the duo stamping their authority on international football. So, Williams is a viable target for Barcelona.
As for Chelsea, they enquired about the 22-year-old Spanish international in the summer transfer window but could not complete a permanent move. While the West London club might complete a permanent deal for Jadon Sancho, Mykhailo Mudryk faces an uncertain future at Stamford Bridge. So, Williams is an option worth considering for Chelsea.
The latest update has revealed that the Spaniard is keeping his options open ahead of the 2025 summer transfer window. So, it will be interesting to see where he plies his trade in 12 months, although he will spend the 2024/25 season with Athletic Club.
