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Nico Williams (Source- Football Espana)
Spanish star Nico Williams is set to stay with Athletic Bilbao despite massive interest from FC Barcelona. The young winger was being linked with FC Barcelona after his amazing performances for the Spanish national team which saw them win EURO 2024.
There were widespread reports that FC Barcelona are firmly in talks with Bilbao over a possible move for the winger. The two sides couldn’t settle down on a price and the latest news has poured cold water on Barcelona’s attempts.
🚨🔴⚪️ Nico Williams on Athletic Club channels: “I’m back! I’m really looking forward to this season”.
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) August 6, 2024
“Vamos, Athletic!”. 👍🏽pic.twitter.com/akD0iXWBY7
Fabrizio Romano posted a video of Nico Williams stating his decision to stay with his current club. The video was posted on Tuesday morning and sent the Athletic Bilbao fans into huge raptures.
FC Barcelona looking for new winger
Jules Kounde, who plays for FC Barcelona, had been hopeful of Nico Williams moving over to the Camp Nou. The French star while speaking to the media said, “He is a great player and of course, I would like to have him as a teammate. Let’s see what the club does, but if it can be done, of course, we would be delighted.”
This has come as a huge blow for the Camp Nou side who are now looking at their options. The names of Jadon Sancho and Antony from Manchester United have been discussed as possible options.
There were also reports that FC Barcelona could be involved in a swap deal with Frenkie De Jong going the other way. Erik Ten Hag has been a huge admirer of the Dutch midfielder and famously pursued him during his maiden season in England.
The Red Devil had offered Antony who hasn’t managed to do well in England since his move from Ajax in 2022. That transfer though was rejected by FC Barcelona and it would be interesting to see what the Spanish side does next.
Frenkie De Jong has been permitted to seek a new club according to reports in Europe. The Dutch star had decided to stay in Spain but now could see his playing time reduced due to the abundance of talent coming through.