Arsenal and Chelsea transfer plans dealt blow by Spurs despite private meeting

09 March 2024 , 20:30

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Nico Williams is being tracked by Arsenal and Chelsea but Tottenham could yet enter the race (Image: Ion Alcoba/Quality Sport Images)

Tottenham will consider rivalling Arsenal and Chelsea for the signing of Athletic Bilbao winger Nico Williams this summer.

The 21-year-old attacker penned a new three-year contract in the Basque Country back in December but his release clause remains the same value at £43million.

Williams' previous deal was due to expire at the end of June but Athletic Club are no longer at risk of losing their highly-coveted forward on a free transfer.

However, he could quickly become one of the biggest transfer stories of the summer with Arsenal and Chelsea already heavily scouting the player, who recently helped his side reach the Copa del Rey final by thumping Atletico Madrid 4-0 on aggregate.

Aston Villa previously tested the waters for the Spain international - both last summer and the previous January - but Williams was reluctant to leave San Mames despite Villa's desire to meet his release clause.

Unai Emery even flew to the Basque Country to hold face-to-face talks with Williams in a private hotel meeting last June but the young talent politely declined the chance to move to the Midlands, instead staying put.

Though it must be noted, Villa could prove to be an easier sell this time around providing they're able to offer assurances of Champions League football come next season as Emery's side continue to punch well above their weight.

Finances could be tight this summer, however, as Villa recently confirmed a loss of just under £120m for 2023 while Emery also indicated during a recent press conference that the club may have to sell before they buy.

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Nico Williams is being watch by a number of top clubs from England and Spain (Getty Images)

Real Madrid had also been monitoring Williams' contract situation but now London's top three clubs are expected to go toe-to-toe for his signature, although Chelsea will have to be cautious of PSR rules after announcing pre-tax losses of £90m for 2022/23.

Meanwhile, Spurs will have more freedom in the transfer market with Wolves star Neto and Barcelona's Raphinha also said to be appreciated. Ange Postecoglou's forward plans could hinge on his faith in Richarlison as a central striker while there is also a decision to be made over Timo Werner's loan.

Williams has six goals and 11 assists in 27 appearances in all competitions this season for Athletic Club.

It's understood he earns over £100,000 after tax meaning any side looking to sign the speedy dibbler this summer will have to fork out a hefty financial package both in terms of a transfer fee and wages.

Ryan Taylor