Euro 2024 breakout star Nico Williams is reportedly entertaining the idea of a move to the Premier League, sparking a fierce transfer battle between some of England's top clubs. Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool and Tottenham Hotspur are all interested in the Athletic Club winger, who played a key role in Spain's European Championship triumph, including a goal in the final against England.
A Rising Star with a Growing Reputation
At just 22 years old, Williams has become one of the most coveted wingers in Europe. Despite a summer of intense transfer speculation, including a near-move to Barcelona, Williams chose to remain at his boyhood club, Athletic Club, where he has steadily regained his form following a turbulent off-season.
Williams' contract with Athletic runs until 2027, but his relatively modest £46m release clause ensures a move could materialize as early as next summer. According to The Athletic, the Spanish international is more open than ever to exploring the Premier League, with a transfer in 2025 considered “likely.”
The Premier League Contenders
Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool and Tottenham are reportedly vying for the speedy striker's signature. Each club has the financial muscle to meet Williams' release clause and offer him the competitive wages that make a move to the Premier League increasingly attractive.
Williams' current salary of €10 million per year, or approximately £160,000 per week, places him among the highest-paid players in La Liga outside of Spain's big three clubs. While that salary dissuaded Barcelona from pursuing the winger, Premier League teams typically pay their stars much higher salaries, making Williams an attractive target for English teams.
Bayern Munich and Other Suitors
While the Premier League is the leading candidate for Williams, interest extends beyond England. Bundesliga powerhouse Bayern Munich is also monitoring the Spanish star, adding another layer of competition to the transfer saga. Notably absent from the reported list of suitors is Manchester City, although their Ballon d'Or-winning midfielder Rodri has publicly expressed his admiration for Williams, naming him as a player he would love to see at the Etihad.
What's Next for Williams?
Williams has hinted at the possibility of signing a new contract with Athletic Club, but the team's Basque-only player policy allows the club to save on transfer fees and allocate significant salaries to retain its stars. However, with Williams' rising profile and the unrivaled financial appeal of the Premier League, Athletic face an uphill battle to keep their rising star.
As the summer transfer window approaches, the race for Nico Williams is shaping up to be one of the most intriguing stories of 2025. With his affordable release clause and undeniable talent, Premier League clubs are ready to compete fiercely for the signing of Spain's latest sensation.
