Chelsea transfer target Nico Williams could stay at Athletic Bilbao for one more season, according to Sport.
The Spanish international has been heavily linked with a move to the Premier League, with the Blues, Liverpool, Arsenal and Aston Villa having been mentioned as potential destinations. However, after Athletic won the Copa Del Rey last Saturday, they are guaranteed European football next season, with Williams said to be keen on playing in continental competitions. Supporters on X are worried that Chelsea could lose out on the player:
We're in trouble
— Macosta 🇰🇪 (@Macosta2547) April 10, 2024
Everyone just rejecting us for fun
— Jø 🧘🏾♂️🦉 (@Detroit_xix) April 10, 2024
Our lack of European football will cost us some good players
— AA (@IsBiggty) April 10, 2024
Many players will start rejecting Chelsea soon.
— Johnson A. (@JohnsonAdah8) April 10, 2024
We should at least play Conference League and then we can sign anyone because they will be motivated a bit
— just that guy (@Manone080) April 10, 2024
Can’t blame him. He gets to play with his bro in Europe and he is being payed quite handsomely already
— Alek Horsman (@HorsmanAle56924) April 10, 2024
Having a low release clause says otherwise 😭
— Luca📿 (@MafiaBo33) April 10, 2024
Playing the Europa League final at home
Sport report that one of the motivations for remaining with Athletic would be to play a European final on their home ground. San Mames is scheduled to host the Europa League final in 2025.
Of course, with Athletic still in contention for Champions League qualification, that dream may not be realised anyway, but it does raise more questions about Williams’ interest in moving clubs this summer.
Chelsea can trigger Williams’ release clause
While persuading the player may be a challenge, the Blues will have no issues when it comes to agreeing a fee for the 21-year-old.
It has been reported by multiple sources that Williams has a buyout fee in his contract worth €50m (£43m), which makes him a very attainable target.
