Aston Villa have been handed another boost in their race to sign Nico Williams from Athletic Bilbao as Barcelona look likely to pull out.
Nico Wiliams has been an Aston Villa target for while now, with the 21-year-old reportedly not keen on a move during the summer.
But given the change in circumstances and Villa’s continual rise, it is thought he could be reconsidering his stance as interest continues.
It had been reported previously that Real Madrid and Barcelona had both withdrawn from the transfer race.
But now Villa have been handed another boost in their chase for the exciting 21-year-old.
Barcelona close to losing Williams
According to the Spanish outlet Sport, Barcelona are ‘very close to losing’ in the race to sign Williams.
It is believed the player is close to signing a new contract with Bilbao which could give Villa the edge.
It is believed Villa would be willing to part with serious cash to sign him as we saw in the summer.
Barcelona are only interested in Williams if they can get him for free, something Villa would have the edge with as they’d have the financial muscle to sign him for the reported £44 million which would be the new release clause.
Especially with the potential of Champions League football on the cards.
Villa could be signing a difference maker
Williams is a player who could be a real difference maker for Villa as they develop as a team.
Given how far Villa’s team quality has come so far under Emery in just a year, Williams is a logic next move.
Manchester City key man Rodri has already given his seal of approval to the youngster who he described as ‘the difference’ following a Spanish performance in 2022.
“Nico was the difference. He changed the rhythm of the match with his stride and the energy he has.
“Nico was key in his second game with the national team and I had to push him.”
