Man Utd, Barcelona and Real Madrid get huge Nico Williams update
Tom Weber
- Updated: 4 Oct 2023 18:58 BST
- 4 min read
Spanish media have provided an update on Nico Williams' contract situation - and it's bad news for Manchester United and his other suitors.
The youngster is one of Europe's most sought-after commodities. With four assists in five games for Athletic Club this season, the 21-year-old is once again showing why he is already a full-fledged Spain international.
Many clubs in need of a winger - or those who are simply keen to snap up one of the most exciting talents in the world - like Man Utd, Barcelona and Real Madrid have been licking their lips at the prospect of being able to land Williams on a free transfer as his contract expires at the end of the current campaign.
READ: Chelsea, Man Utd and Real Madrid fight over 15-YEAR-OLD wonderkid
The Red Devils are mightily shorthanded on the right wing after Jadon Sancho's public spat with Erik ten Hag and the investigation into domestic abuse and assault allegations levelled against Antony. While the latter is now, controversially, back in the Dutchman's squad, his performances at Old Trafford up to this point make his return less of a boost than one might think.
Williams update
Despite the high-profile interest in Williams, his suitors could soon be disappointed. According to Sport, the negotiations between the winger and Athletic Club "have made a lot of progress in recent weeks and the player's relationship with the Basque board is good."
It is said that the Bilbao side and the 21-year-old are close to finding an "intermediate solution" that would allow the youngster to pursue a change of scenery without Athletic going empty-handed: the two camps are close to agreeing to a new deal with a relatively affordable release clause.
READ: Barcelona swoop for Chelsea flop and fellow teenage wonderkid
Barcelona in particular have been at the forefront in courting Williams - helped by the fact that he has a great relationship with some Blaugrana youngsters - and they were enticed by his expiring contract.
But the above-mentioned report states that some clubs would also be prepared to pay a transfer fee for him in January should Athletic indicate their willingness to entertain offers. Even if Williams signs a new deal, it will not be the end of the big-name interest in his services.
