A new chapter has opened in the transfer market and this time the focus is on Nico Williams, the Athletic Club gem who has caught the attention of several European giants. Aston Villa, under the leadership of Unai Emery, are preparing to intensify their efforts to secure the signing of the Spain international, who is also being targeted by clubs such as Arsenal, Liverpool and Barcelona.
21-year-old Nico Williams has enjoyed a meteoric rise since arriving at Athletic Club, making his first-team debut at the age of 18 and securing a place in the Spanish national team. His performance in more than 100 games for Athletic, contributing 17 goals and 18 assists, has attracted the attention of elite clubs in Europe. Williams continued to shine in the current 2023/24 season with five goals and nine assists in 22 appearances.
Aston Villa's interest is based on the need to strengthen its attacking line, particularly given the uncertainty surrounding Bertrand Traore's future at Villa Park. Unai Emery sees Williams as the perfect option to bolster his attack and the Spaniard is rumored to be intrigued by the West Midlands club's project.
Aston Villa is not the only interested party
However, the competition for Nico Williams is fierce. Both Arsenal and Liverpool have expressed interest and are looking to improve the consistency of their attacking lines. Barcelona also see the young Spanish attacker as an attractive option given the uncertainty surrounding Raphinha and Ferran Torres.
With a release clause of £43 million, Nico Williams has become a hot target in the market.