After the shockwaves of last summer—when Nico Williams rejected Barcelona and Bayern Munich to sign a massive 10-year extension with Athletic Bilbao—the script has flipped. Just 12 months into that deal, the 23-year-old winger is reportedly ready to consider a summer exit.
According to latest reports from TEAMtalk, intermediaries have already begun “market-testing” his availability, alerting the likes of Arsenal, Liverpool, Chelsea, Manchester United, and PSG.
The Ambition Gap
Despite his public declaration of loyalty last year, Williams is reportedly frustrated by Athletic’s underwhelming campaign. Currently sitting mid-table and struggling for consistency, the club’s trajectory no longer seems to align with Nico’s elite ambitions.
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The Clause: His new contract, valid until 2035, includes a release clause set at a staggering €100 million (£87.2m).
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The Wages: Williams is currently on a “superstar” salary, which Athletic might find difficult to maintain if they fail to qualify for European competition.
The “Injury Hell” Threatening His World Cup
The biggest shadow over a potential transfer isn’t the price tag, but his health. Nico has been sidelined indefinitely with a persistent pubalgia (sports hernia) that has plagued his 2025/26 season.
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World Cup in Jeopardy: Spain’s medical staff are reportedly “deeply concerned.” If conservative treatment fails, surgery is the only option. An operation would require a 3-4 month recovery, potentially ruling him out of the 2026 World Cup in North America.
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Impact on Suitors: Clubs like Bayern Munich, who were looking for a long-term successor to Luis Díaz, are now hesitant to trigger a nine-figure clause for a player whose explosive pace might be compromised by chronic hip issues.
Agent Arsenal?
While several clubs are watching, Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal have emerged as the “ones to watch.” Having missed out on him last year, the Gunners still view Williams as the “dream” upgrade for their left flank. However, they are currently weighing whether the €100m risk is justifiable given his recent medical record.