- EXCLUSIVE from Graeme Bailey
HITC has been told that Barcelona are leading the chase for Nico Williams and are in pole position to seal his signature.
The La Liga giants have opened talks and made the 22-year-old Spanish winger their top transfer target this summer.
It is understood that Barcelona’s sporting director Deco has now stepped up talks to sign Nico Williams after manager Hansi Flick confirmed his desire to work with him at Camp Nou.
Barcelona president Joan Laporta is also eager to complete the move having previously made it clear to the club’s hierarchy that he wants to seal Williams’ signature this summer.
As previously revealed by HITC, Arsenal, Liverpool, Newcastle United and Aston Villa have all held talks with Williams‘ representatives.
It is understood that Chelsea also made contact in recent weeks to assess the situation but all Premier League clubs were informed that Williams’ preference was to join Barcelona this summer.
Nico Williams price revealed as talks continue
Barcelona are pushing their way to the front of the queue for Williams, and they have been made aware exactly how much they’ll have to pay to secure his signature.
HITC understands that talks with Athletic Bilbao have been limited as the Spanish outfit has insisted that Williams’ release clause of £43million will have to be met for him to leave this summer.
If any of the Premier League clubs are eager to jump ahead of Barcelona in the race for Williams then this is the price they need to match – but with the Spaniard preferring a move to Barcelona it could make a deal more difficult.
Williams is fresh from his Euro 2024-winning campaign with Spain, where he was one of the standout performers for his nation.
He ended the tournament with one assist and two goals – including the opener in the final against England.
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