Reports from Spain suggest that the race to sign Nico Williams could be blown open by a bidding war.
The 22-year-old winger has attracted plenty of attention to himself after starring in this summer’s Euro 2024 with Spain.
As revealed by HITC, Barcelona have stepped up talks for Nico Williams after manager Hansi Flick confirmed his desire to work with him at Camp Nou.
It is understood that Nico Williams has his heart set on a move to the Catalan giants this summer but they are yet to strike an agreement and Athletic Bilbao are insisting that his release clause must be met.
Barcelona are yet to complete a signing this summer and are wrestling with their ongoing financial restraints.
Barcelona would back out of Liverpool and Chelsea bidding war
Barcelona are in pole position to sign Nico Williams this summer, but there remains interest from the Premier League.
HITC understands that Arsenal, Liverpool, Newcastle United, Aston Villa and Chelsea have all held talks with the player’s representatives.
According to Spanish outlet Marca, Chelsea and Liverpool are providing “stiff competition” to sign Williams this summer.
The report adds that Barcelona have financial limitations and would not be willing to enter a bidding war for Williams – “especially if Premier League clubs are involved”.
His release clause is set at 58 million euros (£49million) – a non-negotiable figure for Bilbao.
Liverpool and Chelsea could use their financial muscle
Very few clubs across Europe are able to match the financial strength of Premier League clubs.
READ MORE: Senior Liverpool duo tipped to consider ‘mind-boggling’ transfer offers this summer
According to the report, Barcelona are not willing to go head-to-head with English sides which could open the door for Liverpool or Chelsea to wrestle their way into the lead.
Williams is one of the hottest assets in Europe this summer after his sparkling Euro 2024 display, including a goal in the final against England.
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