European giants enter race to sign Barcelona target Nico Williams: Reports

Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) have reportedly entered the race to sign Barcelona target Nico Williams from Athletic Club this summer. This is according to The Athletic, who also reported that the player's release clause is around the €55/60 million region (via @PSGhub).

Williams is certainly a hot prospect this summer, with Arsenal and Chelsea also said to be interested in a move for the Spain international (via Mirror). The winger's stock has certainly risen after his performances at Euro 2024, bagging two goals and an assist in six matches.

However, this report seemingly hints at the fact that PSG's interest is still in a nascent stage, with the club assessing whether a deal for the player is feasible. He has three years left on his deal with his current employers and it remains uncertain as to whether the attacker wants to move.

When asked about Williams' future, Athletic Club manager Ernesto Valverde said (via Mirror):

"I have no doubts about Nico. 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 rumors because the market will be open until the end of August."

A move to Paris is certainly tempting, with the French giants looking to replace Kylian Mbappe, who departed for Real Madrid this summer. This would earn Williams the chance to compete for the UEFA Champions League as well.

Last season, the 22-year-old made 37 appearances across competitions, bagging eight goals and 19 assists.

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Nico Williams makes cryptic social media post amid links to Barcelona

Nico Williams

Nico Williams' latest Instagram post seems to have confused fans further about the Spaniard's future. Barcelona fans may have been sent into a frenzy after the winger, who is on holiday, shared an image of the ocean on his story and wrote in the caption:

"Calm down."

Nico Willaims' Instagram story

This could be in reference to the non-stop chatter regarding his future, with the player hinting at the fact that he may remain at Athletic Club for now. Barcelona will certainly be disappointed if this is the case, with the club yet to find a sure-shot starter in the left-wing position.

Moving into the 2024/25 campaign, it is likely that Ferran Torres or Raphinha could be the ones to start on this side. Lamine Yamal has locked down the right-wing slot after his performances last season for the Catalans and for Spain at Euro 2024.