Chelsea have reportedly joined the race for Athletic Bilbao attacker Nico Williams ahead of the summer window.
The 22-year-old has recently been plying his trade on the international stage for Spain, who advanced into the semi-finals of the UEFA Nations League.
The Euro 2024 holders required penalty kicks to squeeze past the final-eight attentions of the Netherlands on Sunday night, three days after Williams found the net during the first leg.
The winger has enjoyed a modest campaign for Bilbao this season, featuring in 24 La Liga matches, scoring four goals and providing five assists.
Williams has only ever played for the Basque outfit in senior football, scoring 29 times across 159 first-team appearances since his debut in 2020.
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Chelsea join Arsenal, Liverpool in Williams race?
According to TBR Football, Chelsea are targeting the acquisition of a new attacking talent during the upcoming summer transfer window in 2025.
The report claims that the West London Blues are now in the race for the highly-touted services of Athletic Bilbao star Williams ahead of the trading point.
It is understood that Enzo Maresca‘s club are not alone in their fondness of the attacker, with Arsenal and Premier League leaders Liverpool also keen.
The 22-year-old is supposedly favouring a high-profile switch across La Liga to Hansi Flick‘s Barcelona at this stage, however the Spaniard may not secure his dream switch.
It is understood that the Catalan club have not made Williams a priority signing ahead of the summer window, amid the brilliant form of Raphinha.
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Chelsea looking for Sancho alternatives?
Providing six goal contributions across 23 Premier League appearances this term, it is fair to say that Jadon Sancho has experienced a steady campaign on loan from Manchester United.
However, it is understood that Maresca’s men will not seek to secure the permanent services of the former England international during the summer.
As a result, Chelsea will be lighter on the flanks, meaning that their efforts to bring Spanish hero Williams to Stamford Bridge could intensify.
