Spanish powerhouses Real Madrid and FC Barcelona have shown interest in Athletic Bilbao's forward Nico Williams whose current deal with the Basque club ends at the of this season.
Nico, 21, is the brother of La Liga's iconic forward Inaki Williams and has gathered interest from European giants like Madrid, Barcelona, Manchester City and Liverpool due to his explosive playing style and incredible dribbling skills.
Nico's current deal ends in June 2024 which means he would be free to negotiate with any club he wants in January. While the 21-year-old wants to renew his contract, he doesn't want to leave for free and wants a club to activate his €50 release clause so his boyhood club can earn some money with his departure.
Talks with Athletic Bilbao are not progressing as Nico and his agent, Felix Tainta, wanted to and the latter has also confirmed that to local Basque media.
"In a few months the contract will end, let us not forget this. There is no definitive offer from the club or the player,” he told El Correo.
"The club must listen to the player and must try to reach an agreement that is good for both parties, always starting from the basis that the contract ends in a few months, so that we do not forget. The club knows what the player’s approach is, what he wants."
Williams previously acknowledged the interest in his services, saying of the possibility of joining one of Europe's biggest clubs: "The fact that great clubs like Real Madrid, Barcelona and Premier League clubs want me means I’m doing things well. For me, it's clear what decision I want. My agents are working on it."
It must be noted that if the talks do not progress with the club, Madrid would be willing to swoop in and pay €50m release clause to acquire his services as they are in need of a left-footed player who excels on the right wing.