Pep Guardiola is reportedly pushing his club Manchester City to make a move for Athletic Club winger Nico Williams in the summer.
According to Fichajes, Nico Williams has emerged as a big target for Manchester City ahead of the summer, with Pep Guardiola pushing for the winger. The highly-successful coach wants a new option in the wide attacking areas, with the Spanish international seen as an achievable target despite interest from elsewhere.
Nico Williams was on the scoresheet on Thursday as he helped Athletic Club move into the semi-finals of the UEFA Europa League. This could be the attacker’s final season at San Mames as he has already attracted big interest from top clubs including Barcelona and Arsenal.
Arsenal are hopeful of landing the winger as new sporting director Andrea Berta views him as an ideal addition to the attacking setup. However, there could be issues with the Gunners’ pursuit of Williams, as his wages could be a stumbling block.
Barcelona have been also keen, although their ongoing financial issues as well as the form of Raphinha have compelled them to cool their interest in Nico Williams. Manchester City are the latest to enter the race, as Pep Guardiola is now keen to add the attacker to his squad and is ready to urge the club to make the move.
Manchester City feel the winger’s release clause worth a reported €65 million is within grasp, and they could trigger it in their bid to bring. Guardiola’s side could also be in a strong position to pay his requested wage demands, which could potentially give them an upper hand over rivals Arsenal in the race.
Pep Guardiola keen to add a new winger
Guardiola has not been satisfied with the performances of his wingers, with Jeremy Doku and summer arrival Savinho underwhelming this season. There are also reports linking Jack Grealish with an exit from Manchester City, with the Citizens linked with big names like Rodrygo Goes.
Rayan Cherki is another target, although, with the dynamism and explosiveness that Guardiola might want from his new winger, Nico Williams could suit their squad. Whether the €65 million-rated Euro 2024 winner from Athletic Club wants this move to Manchester City remains to be seen, as he could have quite a few substantial offers in the summer window.
