Athletic Club head coach, Ernesto Valverde, has addressed speculation surrounding winger Nico Williams, asserting that the 22-year-old does not intend to depart the club this summer.
Williams caught the attention of Europe’s top clubs last season and further boosted his profile with a standout performance for Spain at Euro 2024.
Arsenal, Chelsea, and Barcelona are among his admirers.
Currently enjoying a holiday after his summer exploits, Williams is eagerly anticipated back at Athletic, according to Valverde.
“I have no doubts about Nico,” Valverde told the media. “He looks good and happy. This year we have many challenges ahead of us and I’m sure Nico will love to face them.
“He hasn’t been the only player who has had to live with rumours because the market will be open until the end of August. He’s a great player and there may be clubs who might be interested in him, but he’s happy with us and we’re happy with him. We’re counting on Nico for when he returns from the holidays.
“We aspire to have the best players and that they want to be with us. We have a year for which we are very excited. We have a very good team and if we can improve it, we will do so.”
Williams’ €58m, £48.9m, release clause is seen as a bargain in the current transfer market, but reports revealed that Chelsea are hesitant due to his high wage demands, nearing €200,000 per week.
Reports also indicated Williams prefers a move to Barcelona, where several of his Spain teammates have openly encouraged him to join.
Lamine Yamal has expressed a desire to play with his close friend at club level, and midfielder Pedri recently voiced his support for the move.
“He would be a great signing for Barca,” Pedri told The Residency. “At the Euros, we all saw what he is capable of doing.”
Williams is expected to rest until August 12 after Euro 2024 and will likely make a decision on his future before his return.
