What Premier League fans can expect from Nico Williams

Cameron Smith

21 Jun 2024 13:30 BST
4 min read

Nico Williams on Spain duty at Euro 2024 — © IMAGO

Nico Williams is set to be involved in yet another transfer tug-of-war as Europe’s top clubs fight to sign the talented Athletic Club winger.

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The 21-year-old is regarded as one of the brightest young prospects in world football and his performance against Italy at Euro 2024 was just a glimpse of what he has to offer.

Barcelona, Arsenal and Chelsea have all been linked with a move for Williams, although a Premier League move seems more likely, despite his desire to remain in Spain.

The Athletic have revealed that Barca face a €130 million “black hole” in their budget and a deal for the Spain star will only be possible if they sell a major star by the end of the month.

Lamine Yamal has made it clear he would love to hook up with Williams at Camp Nou, but it seems unlikely as things stand.

As a result, a move to the Premier League could be on the cards if Arsenal or Chelsea decide to pay his Athletic Club release clause.

In May, FootballTransfers exclusively revealed that the Gunners have been following Williams and are ready to trigger his €55 million release clause, while Chelsea have also been linked with a move.

If Williams does join the Premier League this summer, what can Arsenal or Chelsea fans expect from the young Spaniard?

How good is Nico Williams?

Williams is one of the most exciting wingers in European football and he is ready to play regular Champions League football.

The 21-year-old possesses lightning quick speed and he is a nightmare to defend against. Williams is always looking to beat his full-back in order to deliver a cross into the box or cut inside to make room for a shot.

In fact, Williams registered the second-highest number of successful take-ons during the 2023-24 LaLiga season (92), with only Girona’s Savio completing more than the Spain star.

His close control is immaculate and he is equally devastating against a low block or a high line.

STATS

Nico Williams

M (R), AM (RL)

Athletic

Nico Williams

M (R), AM (RL)

Athletic

37

Games
8

Goals
16

Assists

With eight goals and 16 assists in 37 appearances in all competitions last campaign, Williams isn’t a wide player with no end product either - he is immense in the final third.

The Athletic Club winger is a complete livewire and keeping him quiet for an entire game is a near impossible task.

All in all, the Spaniard would become an immediate starter at the Emirates or Stamford Bridge and both teams would benefit greatly from his arrival.