Arsenal and Chelsea Receive Update on Nico Williams Amid Transfer Interest

Arsenal and Chelsea are both eyeing major attacking reinforcements this summer, and transfer target Nico Williams has provided clarity on his plans following the European Championship.

The 21-year-old winger has caught the attention of the London rivals after a series of standout performances for Athletic Club this season. Previously linked with Liverpool and Aston Villa, Williams has a release clause of around £43 million, included in the new contract he signed with Athletic in December.

Williams has deferred any transfer discussions until after his commitments with Spain at Euro 2024 are complete.

“I am very happy at Athletic,” Williams told Spanish radio station Cope. “This is the club that has given me everything and has fully supported me. I am very happy in Bilbao, and that’s what I have to say.

Athletic is my home, and my focus now is entirely on the Euros. A competition like this demands 100 percent attention, and I don’t want to be distracted by transfer talks.”

Williams added that he has instructed his representatives to hold off on any transfer discussions until after the Euros. “I have made it clear to my agents that I don’t want to know anything until the Euros is over. My sole aim is to win the Euros with Spain.”

Williams’ impressive performances have also attracted interest from Barcelona, who at one point hoped to sign him for free. However, the winger demonstrated his loyalty to Athletic by signing a new contract before the end of last year.

“I was comfortable in Bilbao,” Williams continued. “I knew I wanted to stay, and both parties agreed to continue together. I was very happy with my decision to renew my contract.”

Arsenal and Chelsea will now have to wait until the conclusion of Euro 2024 to advance any potential moves for the talented winger.