Athletic Club are reportedly ready to sell Manchester United target Nico Williams in the summer transfer window.
Nico Williams could be heading toward a major career turning point this summer, with Athletic Club willing to listen to offers for the winger despite his long-term contract.
The 23-year-old remains tied to the Basque club until 2035, yet the situation around his future has become increasingly uncertain. A difficult season hampered by persistent pubalgia has affected his performances and consistency, prompting discussions within the club about a potential sale.
Williams has managed four goals and six assists in 26 appearances this campaign, respectable numbers, but below the expectations set by his explosive performances in previous seasons. As a result, Athletic Club are believed to be open to negotiating a deal below his €95 million release clause if the right offer arrives.
For the club’s leadership, a transfer could allow them to reinvest in strengthening other areas of the squad while capitalising on the player’s still-considerable market value.
Manchester United lead Premier League interest
Manchester United have emerged as one of the most serious contenders to sign Williams when the transfer window opens. The Old Trafford side are actively searching for additional attacking firepower, particularly on the flanks.
Williams’s pace, dribbling ability and unpredictability make him an attractive option to complement United’s existing attacking options. A move could see him slot into a forward line alongside players such as Matheus Cunha and Benjamin Sesko, while also providing support to emerging talents like Amad Diallo. However, according to Fichajes, Manchester United are not alone in their pursuit.
Chelsea are also keeping a close eye on the situation. At Stamford Bridge, the idea of pairing Williams with rising stars such as Estevao Willian and Cole Palmer has been floated as part of a long-term attacking project. Such a move could even trigger departures within Chelsea’s current squad as the club reshapes its forward line.
Arsenal have also been alerted to Williams’s availability. Manager Mikel Arteta is reportedly keen to track developments, especially with potential uncertainty surrounding the futures of players like Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard. If either winger were to leave, Williams could emerge as a natural replacement capable of maintaining Arsenal’s attacking intensity.
Athletic Club, meanwhile, are thought to be prioritising a swift resolution if bids in the region of €80 million arrive. The player’s ongoing injury concerns remain a factor, though his technical ability and explosive style continue to attract elite interest.
A fresh start might benefit everyone
From a sporting perspective, a summer transfer could represent the right solution for both Nico Williams and Athletic Club. Injuries and inconsistency have slowed his momentum in Bilbao, and a new environment might help him rediscover the form that once made him one of Spain’s most exciting young attackers.
For Premier League clubs, the attraction is obvious. Williams offers raw pace, fearless dribbling and the ability to stretch defences, qualities that are invaluable in England’s high-intensity football.
The biggest question will be which club moves decisively first. Manchester United currently appear best positioned, but Chelsea and Arsenal could quickly change the landscape. If Athletic Club truly open the door to negotiations, Nico Williams may become one of the most intriguing attacking transfers of the summer window.
