Sport have revealed that Barcelona have now begun making concrete efforts to sign Athletic Club Bilbao star Nico Williams, who is also rumoured to be on Tottenham’s radar.
While Willaims has been thought of very highly for many years, the youngster appears to have come of age this campaign, with the winger having managed six goals and 14 assists so far (Transfermarkt).
The 21-year-old is thought to have a release clause of €50m (£42.8m) and it has been widely reported over recent weeks that Tottenham are keeping a close eye on the youngster (The Telegraph).
Over the last few days, some outlets have suggested that Spurs are set to face competition from Aston Villa (GiveMeSport) and Barcelona (Football Espana) for the wide man.
Barcelona make contact with Nico Williams
Sport have now claimed that Barca have already stepped up their efforts to land Willaims, with the club said to be keen to overcome competition from the Premier League for the player.
Interestingly, the report says that the La Liga giants would not be able to sign the Spain international this summer and are instead working on a deal for the player to arrive at Nou Camp in 2025.
The publication asserts that this would suit Williams as although he is open to leaving San Mames this summer, his preference would be to spend one more season with his boyhood club.
Spurs Web Opinion
Williams would be a real coup for Tottenham but there is no doubt that several of Europe’s biggest clubs will be after the Athletic club star this summer.
Given that he has a clearly stipulated release clause, the decision on his next destination will come down to the player himself and the 21-year-old might find it difficult to turn down an approach from Barca.