Chelsea 'ready' to launch Nico Williams bid after Spain ace blew England away

Chelsea are preparing to launch a move for Athletic Bilbao winger Nico Williams after excelling for Spain at Euro 2024, according to reports. The 22-year-old was La Roja’s leading light against England in the final, scoring the opening goal and causing no shortage of problems throughout.

Williams has been heavily linked with a move to Barcelona, who are said to be hoping to make a statement of intent by snapping him up. However, it seems Chelsea are ready to battle the Catalan giants with the Blues reportedly looking to make Williams their next marquee signing.

They have already done their groundwork ahead of a potential move, according to The Athletic, with Williams placed high on their list of preferred targets. It is said that Chelsea believe they are ‘well placed’ to move for the winger but know that Barcelona are likely to put up a fight.

Chelsea are yet to lodge an official bid, with Williams thought to have a £47million release clause written into his contract. It remains to be seen if the Blues will decide to match it or attempt to haggle with Bilbao in an effort to drive down any potential transfer fee.

Barcelona, meanwhile, are eager to reunite Williams with his international team-mate Lamine Yamal by bringing him to the Nou Camp. Both players were named in UEFA’s team of the tournament for the Euros, chipping in with three goals and five assists between them.

Williams would reportedly prefer to remain in La Liga, which suggests that Barcelona might have an edge over Chelsea when it comes to negotiating personal terms. However, the greater financial pulling power enjoyed by the Blues could put them in a position to offer Williams a higher wage.

Bilbao are said to be determined to keep their prized asset but will be powerless to prevent a move if his release clause is met. They have shown they can compete with top clubs in terms of wages, having recently tied down other Spain internationals to new and improved contracts.

Chelsea have already made a number of signings as Enzo Maresca looks to boost his squad ahead of his debut season in charge. Tosin Adarabioyo, Omari Kellyman, Marc Guiu, Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall and Renato Veiga have all joined the Blues for a combined total of £65.4m.

Only time will tell if Williams will become their next big-money signing, with Barcelona seemingly poised to rival the west Londoners in their pursuit of his signature.