Man Utd snubbed! Spanish wonderkid makes huge decision amid transfer links
Tom Weber
- Updated: 1 Dec 2023 15:06 GMT
- 3 min read
Spanish wonderkid Nico Williams has signed a contract extension with Athletic Club, the LaLiga side have announced.
The 21-year-old is one of Europe's most exciting talents and was one of the continent's most intriguing transfer prospects. His contract was due to expire at the end of the season, meaning that he would have been free to choose his next club in January.
A senior Spanish international and on course to already crack the century mark of appearances for his club, speculation about Williams' future was hot prior to the news of his extension. The youngster's contract status had reportedly seen him become a target for Man Utd, Liverpool, Barcelona and Real Madrid.
In recent weeks, it looked almost as though he was sure to depart in the summer as Athletic had reportedly dragged their feet in entering into negotiations, but he eventually made it clear that he had his heart set on staying.
Sorry, Man Utd and Barcelona! 😘
Nico Williams is here to stay 📝 pic.twitter.com/LpLcwkrvHn— Football Transfers (@Transfersdotcom) December 1, 2023
Summer move still possible?
Williams' new deal runs until 2027. The Bilbao side did not disclose whether or not his contract contains a release clause but reports prior to the agreement suggested it could - and a quite affordable one at that.
The 21-year-old will continue to attract interest over the course of the season and it is likely that this extension is simply a means to ensure that he will not depart for free. It has been rumoured that a €50 million release clause will be part of his deal to make a future move possible.
Time will tell what the youngster's plans for the future out, but a summer transfer remains a distinct possibility despite his new deal. Big clubs will come knocking at the end of the season and a fee of 'just' €50m would see him become the club's third-most-expensive sale.
